Inside Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun in Cusco
Qorikancha was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The name means golden enclosure in Quechua- an apt choice, as when the Spanish conquistadores arrived in Peru, Qorikancha’s exterior walls were covered with a band of gold. The temple was dedicated to the sun, Inti, the supreme deity. Originally, one could only enter the temple barefoot, carrying a load on their back to show humility, and after having fasted. Today, you only need to purchase your admission in order to explore it.







