Temple of the Sun Cusco
Once the Inca Empire's golden heart, Qoricancha now showcases a stunning blend of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Temple of the Sun Cusco
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Once the Inca Empire's golden heart, Qoricancha now showcases a stunning blend of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture.
"A must-see in Cusco, where ancient Inca brilliance meets colonial history."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inca Stonework
Temple of the Sun
Marvel at the incredibly precise Inca stonework, a testament to their architectural genius.
Colonial Architecture
Convento de Santo Domingo
Witness the striking contrast of the Spanish colonial church built directly atop Inca foundations.
Golden Courtyard
Qoricancha
Imagine this sacred space once adorned with solid gold sheets, reflecting the power of the sun god.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
📸 Capture the Contrast
Photograph the unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cusco is at high altitude, so drink plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
📸 Capture the Contrast
Photograph the unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cusco is at high altitude, so drink plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Qoricancha for its stunning Inca stonework and the unique historical narrative of the Spanish church built atop the Temple of the Sun. The site offers a profound glimpse into Cusco's layered past, though some find the ticket prices a bit high. It's a highly recommended stop for understanding the city's heritage.
"This was such a cool experience! Absolutely loved exploring here. Definitely sights to see all around, on both sides.
This was the last stop on our big loop starting at bentonite hills at sunrise. We had an SUV with an off-road feature and not fully a 4x4 vehicle. We went in late April and it had not rained recently. But, it got us around no problem and over the river at bentonite.
10/10 would recommend."
Arielle McCarthy
"Worth the drive. Don’t need a 4x4. Drive slow and enjoy. If it’s raining don’t go even if you have a 4x4, you will get stuck. My wife ran the last 5 miles."
Felipe Sattler
"Amazing. It's a fun drive back and is lovely to escape the crowds! Glass Mountain was worth the quick stop too!"
Heidi Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Temple of the Sun, also known as Qoricancha, is centrally located in Cusco, Peru. You can easily reach it by taxi or a short walk from the Plaza de Armas. Many visitors find it a convenient stop on their city exploration. 
Yes, Qoricancha is very easy to find. It's a prominent landmark in the heart of Cusco, often mentioned in walking tours and easily accessible from the main square.
Absolutely! The walk from the Plaza de Armas to Qoricancha is short and pleasant, taking about 5-10 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the city.
Yes, taxis are readily available throughout Cusco. You can hail one on the street or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. Ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand.
Many visitors combine a visit to Qoricancha with a walking tour of Cusco's historic center. This allows you to see other nearby attractions and learn more about the city's rich history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official website or purchase tickets upon arrival. Booking in advance is often recommended to avoid queues.
Yes, an entrance ticket is required to explore the Qoricancha complex, which includes the Convento de Santo Domingo.
The opening hours typically align with the Convento de Santo Domingo. It's best to verify the current hours online or at the entrance, as they can change seasonally.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is a good strategy to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods.
Sometimes, combination tickets that include Qoricancha and other major Cusco sites are available. Inquire at the ticket office or check online for current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the remarkably preserved Inca stonework, the colonial church, and exhibits detailing the site's history. Imagine the gold that once adorned these walls!
Absolutely! It's a unique historical site showcasing the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures, offering a glimpse into Cusco's layered past.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the architecture, history, and exhibits. You might want more time if you're particularly interested in the details.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended to understand the complex history and significance of the site.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always good to check for specific restrictions within certain sections of the convent or museum.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyards offer great perspectives of the Inca walls against the colonial architecture. Look for the intricate stonework details.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the details. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful light.
Focus on the seamless integration of the Inca stone foundations with the Spanish church above. The curved walls are particularly photogenic.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the architecture. Consider adjusting your ISO for lower light conditions inside.
Drone photography is generally prohibited in historical sites and urban areas in Peru. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While there aren't specific play areas, the open courtyards provide space for kids to move around. Consider bringing a small sketchbook for them to draw the interesting stonework. The site is relatively compact, making it manageable for families with young children. Remember to stay hydrated, as Cusco is at a high altitude.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1The superimposed Spanish colonial church offers a unique opportunity to study the impact of conquest and cultural assimilation. Compare the architectural styles and consider the historical narratives presented. Engaging with a knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your understanding of the site's complex past.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fusion of Cultures: Inca and Spanish Legacy
+2Visitors can explore the remnants of the original Inca temple, marveling at the precision of their stonemasonry. The curved walls and trapezoidal niches are hallmarks of Inca architecture, designed to withstand seismic activity. Inside the convent, you can see how the Spanish incorporated these ancient walls into their own structures, creating a unique and historically significant complex. The site offers a tangible connection to both the grandeur of the Inca Empire and the impact of Spanish colonization.
+1This blend of history is what makes Qoricancha so compelling. It's not just a ruin or a church; it's a living testament to the resilience of history and the enduring spirit of Cusco. The site invites contemplation on the past, the present, and the continuous evolution of this ancient city.
+1Understanding Qoricancha's Sacred Significance
+1The astronomical alignment of Qoricancha was also crucial. Its structures were designed to track celestial events, particularly the solstices, which were vital for their agricultural calendar and religious ceremonies. The Temple of the Sun itself was oriented to capture the first rays of the sun during the June solstice. This sophisticated understanding of astronomy highlights the advanced knowledge possessed by the Inca civilization.
Even after the Spanish conquest, the site retained a sense of sacredness. While the gold was plundered, the exceptional Inca stonework remained, and the Spanish built their church upon it. This act, while destructive, also preserved the underlying Inca structures, allowing us to witness their magnificence today. The site continues to evoke a sense of awe and reverence for the Inca's spiritual connection to the cosmos.
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