Raqchi: Temple of Wiracocha (92m × 25m), 156 circular colcas, Inca bath. At 3,550m in Cusco Southern Valley.
Raqchi is one of Cusco's most impressive yet undervisited archaeological sites. Home to the Temple of Wiracocha — the largest roofed Inca structure ever built — this complex sits at 3,550 masl in the Southern Valley.
Key facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | San Pedro district, Canchis province, Cusco |
| Altitude | 3,550 masl |
| Built by | Inca Pachacutec and Tupac Yupanqui (1439-1493) |
| Main temple | 92 m long × 25 m wide, 12 m high central wall |
| Etymology | "Raqchi" from "Cacha" = beauty, good presence |
What to see
Temple of Wiracocha
The largest roofed structure in the Inca Empire. Features a 12-meter high central wall with stone base (3m) and adobe upper section, flanked by 11 circular columns. Dedicated to the creator god Wiracocha.
156 Circular Colcas
Storage structures (8m diameter, 4m height) used for preserving food. One of the largest storage complexes in the empire.
Inca Bath
Finely carved stone water fountains demonstrating Inca hydraulic engineering.
Legend
According to tradition, Wiracocha descended near Cacha. When locals didn't recognize him, he punished them with fire rain. The temple was built to honor him.
How to visit
Raqchi is on the Southern Valley route (Cusco → Andahuaylillas → Raqchi → Sicuani), different from the Sacred Valley. Tour from $36-47 USD including transport and bilingual guide.
Raqchi's Temple of Wiracocha is the Inca Empire's largest roofed building — yet most tourists have never heard of it.
