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Located at the foothills of Mt. Cumbe, 3,400 meters
(11,152 ft) above sea level and 20 kilometers (12.5 mi) from Cajamarca
you will find the most important archaeological site in the Peruvian
Sierra: Cumbemayo. The first attraction is the ceremonial hydraulic
complex - of the same name- standing 3,510 meters (11,512 ft) above
sea level.
This open canal was cut into the rocks and finally decorated with
mysterious petroglyphs. The hydraulic system demonstrates a sequence
of historical developments within the culture that started before
the Chavin diffusion and until the conquering by the Incas. The
area is characterized by a climate with a dry season lasting from
May to October, most days being sunny and hot, and a more rainy
climate between December and March. Additionally, in the zone you
can find the famous rock or "frailones" (impressive geologic
formations) forests, the sanctuary, and the aqueduct, one of the
most significant demonstrations of hydraulic engineering in Pre
Columbian America.
The aqueduct is a hydraulic system that transports
and channels water, functioning in volcanic rock that occupies an
area of approximately 3 square kilometers (1.8 sq mi), demonstrating
the vast knowledge that the ancient Peruvians possessed regarding
this technique. The Sanctuary consists of a jagged rock 20 m (66
ft) high, in the shape of a human head, in which the mouth consists
of a grotto 3.5 meters (13 feet) in diameter and whose walls are
covered with etchings of an unknown nature. Supposedly, the grotto
was used as the sarcophagus of an important person. In addition,
within the stone caves you will also find the "Frailones",
amazing natural geologic formations. To be in Cumbemayo is a great
opportunity to visit the Ventanillas de Otuzco (Small windows of
Otuzco), that includes hundreds of crypts carved into volcanic rock
situated on the highest part of the hills and the Kuntur Wasi, a
pre-Incan archaeological site that was dedicated to the worshipping
of the condor.
Department
Cajamarca
Location
North Andean zone of Perú.
When to go
Year round. Preferred months are April to October
Attractions
Archaeology and culture
How to get there
5 hour trip by bus to Cajamarca.
Activities
Walking, hiking, climbing, observing.
Services
Contract/Hire services in Cajamarca |
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