Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is a major Inca archaeological site in Peru's Sacred Valley, 72 km northwest of Cusco at 2,792 m elevation. Built in the mid-15th century as the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti, it served as both a fortress and ceremonial centre. The site features the Temple of the Sun with massive monolithic granite blocks quarried 6 km away across the valley, impressive stepped agricultural terraces, royal chambers, and sophisticated water channels. In 1536, Manco Inca achieved a rare victory over the Spanish here by flooding the plains below the fortress to neutralize their cavalry. The town retains its original Inca grid layout, making it one of the most authentic surviving Inca settlements and a key stop on the Inca Trail.