I was time to start heading north as I approached 5th week in my journey. This time I visited Ingapirca an ancient site of Inca northern empire.
The highlight of the complex is the elliptical Temple of the Sun, the only one of its kind in the Incan empire, built on top of an ancient Cañari ceremonial rock. As well as a site for rituals, is thought that the structure was used to determine the agricultural and religious calendars. The most important event was Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, which is still celebrated at Ingapirca every June. The mind-boggling stonework that is the hallmark of Inca construction can be fully appreciated here, with volcanic rocks hand-carved so precisely that mortar was unnecessary.
Much of the site is little more than stone foundations, and it takes imagination and a guided tour to bring it to life. The Pilaloma complex on the south side marks the original Cañari settlement. The most interesting feature is the collective tomb of a Cañari priestess and 10 of her servants, who were buried alive with her upon her death, along with thousands of spondylus shells. The tomb lies under a large stone that is thought to be linked to various astronomical calculations and was possibly used as a sacrificial altar.
After receiving a special permit to paint and be without the guide I have spent an entire day painting couple different views of the Temple of the Sun. The weather was always sunny during the mornings and like a clockwork the fog would begin to blanket the site around 3 in the afternoon.
Exploring the ancient sites and ruins is one of the my most favorite things to do in South America. Exploring the esthetics of architecture along with the surrounding landscape is always and unforgettable experience.
I was also very fortunate to find an amazing place to stay about 10 km from Ingapirca. It was old Spanish mission, now converted into a cultural center and accommodation. I was the only guest there plus a friendly dog who took upon himself to guard my room since there were no locks on the door.
It was a classic adobe style structure with wooden structural beams. Each morning a was greeted by cheerful villagers and grazing lamas visiting the courtyard.
‘Ancient baths’ 11” x 14” oil on board
‘Temple of the Sun, Ingapirca’ 14” x 11” oil on board
‘Afternoon at Ingapirca’ 11” x 14” oil on board
‘Spanish Mission’ 11” x 14” oil on board