A mandatory stop on your trip to Andahuaylas is the Curamba Archaeological Complex, which is located in the district of Kishuará at about 4,500 meters above sea level. Its quadrangular and rectangular pyramid-shaped architectural structure will captivate you.
Also called Inca Monte, it was a sacred precinct of sacrificial altar, administrative center (chankas) and metallurgical center for silver processing (Incas), where its pyramid known as Ushnu stands out.
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What can we find in the Curamba Archaeological Complex?
In Curamba we can find the following attractions:
- Metallurgical or wind furnaces
Known as huayras, they are located around the Inca Monte. Made of limestone, they were a strategic purpose, because they allowed to stoke the fire thanks to the winds of the area (especially in May and October).
- Curamba Pyramid
Used for rituals such as sacrifices, it is quadrangular in shape. It has two platforms and a subway structure that is similar to a cell or cave.
- Hills with mummies
Near the pyramids, burial sites have been found in the surrounding hills, where, according to the chronicles, several human remains have been found.
What is Curamba's role?
The Curamba Archaeological Complex was one of the most important administrative centers in the region, due to its good location and its high level of architectural design. It was always exposed to rainfall that generated vegetation growth forming a beautiful view.
Today it is used as a field for cultivation and grazing, which results in the destabilization of the walls and slow destruction of the structure. Therefore, this place is being restored at the initiative of Kishuara, a nearby town.
What is the schedule and cost to enter?
Curamba Archaeological Complex is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free all year round, although it is important to mention that you must have authorization from the local municipality to enter this site.
Because of this and in order to avoid unforeseen weather conditions, it is advisable to stay near the province of Andahuaylas and Pacucha. Glamping is perfect because it is located in a strategic area in the city of Andahuaylas.
Some curious facts about Curamba
- The peculiarities found in this place are the following:
- In the sixteenth century Francisco Pizarro on his march to Cusco passed through Curamba, according to the chronicler of the time Sancho de la Hoz.
- It is used as a stage for the Tinkuy Curamba, which is celebrated every June 22nd, and it stages the visit of the Inca Pachacutec.
- It is located 68 km from the city of Andahuaylas, in the Kishuará district, 10 km from Matapuquio and 28 km from Abancay.
- This is where the metals most prized by the Incas were smelted: gold, silver and copper.
Tinkuy Curamba
Annually, the District Municipality of Kishuará organizes the event known as "Tinkuy Curamba" in order to promote tourism as an engine of economic and social development. This event attracts numerous visitors eager to enjoy this celebration.
The "Tinkuy," which means "encounter," was established on June 22, 2000 and commemorates the arrival and presence of the Inca Pachacutec, who supervised his properties and was received by the Curaca of Curamba. Participation in this ceremony involves students, teachers and the local community, who prepare for weeks and even months, rehearsing assigned roles and collaborating to ensure the best possible organization.
The staging takes place in the esplanade of the Usno of Curamba and is part of the anniversary festivities of Kishuará, in the category of Programmed Events. The ceremony begins with the arrival of the Inca Pachacutec through the Qhapaq Ñan, followed by the Acllas and the Curaca. The Inca is received at the Usno, where he addresses his people. During the ceremony, the people demonstrate their bravery before the Inca. Finally, the Inca retires accompanied by his Coya and Willaq Umu, returning to Cusco through the Qhapaq Ñan.
