* Click Image to Enlarge
High up in the Andes, some 8,900 feet in elevation, located in the northwestern province, is the historical city of the Inca Empire, settled in 1463 by Tupac Inca, who was the head ruler until his death in the late 1400’s. A civil war broke out when his sons fought for control. Unfortunately the empire died in 1532 when it was taken over by Francisco Pizarro and his cavalry, riding on horses and armed with weapons never before seen by the Incas. The only bargaining tools that the Incas had in order to try to keep their land, were gold and silver, but even that did not convince Pizarro and his Spanish cavalry to have mercy. They took captive Atahualpa, the new Inca ruler and demanded him to convert to Christianity. He was imprisoned in what is called the famous “Ransom House” and at the demands of Pizarro he converted in hopes of escaping execution. However, he was still executed. The famous Battle of Cajamarca marked the end of the Inca Empire, but its history is rich, and continues to live on. The Ransom House can still be seen today. Come and visit Cajamarca, Peru to learn more about the Incas and this historical event.
Even though much of Cajamarca’s history is famed for the Incas civilization, it had been rooted in the Chavin and Huari cultures from about 500 A.D. This was referred to as the Caxamarca civilization. But even before that the land had been successfully occupied for several thousand years.
Beyond the echoes of history lay the beauty and natural wonders of these northern highlands. With its equatorial climate you can enjoy all of its sites in comfort. Cajamarca boasts the second largest gold mine in the world. Natural hot springs near the city were converted into baths and bathing pools, Banos del Inca, and are still available and visited by the local people and tourists. A man made aqueduct, Cumbe Mayo, which may be the continent’s oldest structure, is worth visiting, only 12 miles away. Kuntar Wasi, 70 miles away, is a religious center, with ruins that go as far back as 1000 B.C. Tours for these two attractions can be arranged very easily.
For the more active traveler the Andes Mountains are calling you to come and climb its ancient and majestic peaks. Bring a pair of Trekking shoes, a back pack and pitch a tent to enjoy the surroundings of the wondrous display of creation in this magnificent country. You will never want to leave, but if and when you do, you will be changed forever.
Last, but not least, the people of this Spanish city, and also the architecture, are intriguingly lovely. It is truly a culture that stands out on its own. It is quaint and simple, but hang around for their “Carnival” and you might get caught up in the celebration. There is none quite as festive in all of Peru.
