Cusco's architecture reveals THREE distinct construction phases built by different cultures, according to researcher Camille Sauvé's alternative archaeology framework: Hanan Pacha (bedrock carving with channels and altars), Urin Pacha (precise megalithic blocks), and Ukun Pacha (smaller stones with mortar). Each culture built upon the previous work, always in the same order. 🔍🏛️
Key facts claimed:
- Iconic stone nubs appear on both Hanan Pacha and Urin Pacha megalithic styles
- Rebuilt and cobblestone sections clearly show technological differences between megalithic and Inca construction
- Evidence shows megalithic stones were taken and reused by the Spanish for churches and plazas
- The Inca also reused megalithic stones before the Spanish arrived, using them as door lintels
- Some walls show evidence of mortar being used in repairs, which is not found in original megalithic work
Note: This three-phase framework (Hanan Pacha, Urin Pacha, Ukun Pacha) is derived from researcher Camille Sauvé's alternative archaeology theories. The terminology is not standard in mainstream academic archaeology, and 'Ukun Pacha' specifically is not found in peer-reviewed sources. Known stone reuse by both Inca and Spanish is documented, but the cultural attribution and dating of pre-Inca megalithic phases remains contested.