Amazing Fortress of the Inca

Among the brightest creations of fortification art there is a Peruvian fortress Saksaywaman (in the language of Indians  - Kechua - it means "Full up falcon") close to Cuzco. However despite its grandiosity and firmness it didn't protect the Inca army of many thousands from the final enslavement and disappearance of one of the most mysterious and greatest empires of the New World.

The fortress, whose wall are stretching 400 m long, consists of some tiers up to 20 m high. The huge uneven stones are put close to each other like mosaic. And, maybe, it would not amaze anyone, but some of the monoliths are 8,5 meters high!

According to Spanish chronicles the construction of Saksaywaman is dated the 15th century - being made under the reign of the 9th ruler if the Inca - Pachacútec. Though some believe that it was made by even some more ancient civilization who could not only process such monoliths but to lift them on a high top as well. And the Inca just made use of it. How it really was we will never probably know.

Can any stones amaze? - someone will say... But look attentively, they won't leave you indifferent.

Saksaywaman complex

The ditch was probably made by natural forces.

The chronicles say that more than 70 thousand Indians were working on the construction. Pay attention to the round shape of the stones in the second tier.

Long live Peru! - witten on the mountain.


The weight of the biggest monolith reaches 350 tons at the height 8,5 meters.

The first wall demonstrated the power of the Inca.

They say that on the territory of Saksaywaman was a secret bunker where the Inca leader could hide with his family.

Christ statue in Cuzco

When the Spaniards came these walls were many times blooded.

Still indifferent?

The first tier of the wall impresses with the dimension of the monoliths it consists of. "They awe those who watch them close" - mentioned a descendant of the Inca, Garcilaso de la Vega, in his chronicles. 

How was it possible with their antediluvian equipment? It is a real art of mosaic!

Modern Saksaywaman - it is not only the place of tourists pilgrimage but also an interesting historical monument, a cultural center and the place where many celebrations are held.

via OlgaVar