Why You Should Visit The Ancient Inca Temple Of Qorikancha

Have you heard of the famous ancient Qorikancha Temple in Cusco? 

The most sacred religious temple of the Inca Empire, Qorikancha (also commonly referred to as “Coricancha”) was famous for its extraordinary gold-covered walls and incredible stone architecture, and played a highly important role for both spiritual and astronomical purposes for the Inca civilization. Today visitors can explore its well-preserved foundations which lie beneath the Spanish colonial Santo Domingo Convent - learning about its fascinating history and how the site changed through several different eras.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about visiting the ancient Qorikancha Temple. This includes its deep and varied history, the most important features to see during a tour, as well as how luxury tourists can enjoy the most seamless visit. We'll also answer anything else you need to know in our frequently asked questions section.

The Important Historic Periods Of Qorikancha

Ancient Origins Of Qorikancha And Its Importance To The Inca

Located within the historic center of Cusco, Qorikancha was one of the most important ceremonial sites of the Inca Empire. Its name translates as “the Golden Enclosure” from the native Quechua language, with this temple once being covered in giant quantities of gold along its walls. While its exact dates of construction remain disputed, Emperor Pachacuti is widely credited with transforming Qorikancha into the giant religious complex that quickly became central to spiritual life for the Inca during the 15th century.

The once-gleaming temple was mostly dedicated to the Inca deity of Inti - the Sun God - although there are also findings and artifacts within the temple that suggest other sacred spaces here honor the Moon, the stars, and thunder. Like we can find in the famous Inca site Saqsayhuaman, finely carved stone architecture is a prominent feature of Qorikancha, along with its ceremonial courtyards and ancient temple chambers - which are also linked to important shrines throughout the region through its sacred, symbolic ceque system.

What Happened To Qorikancha During The Spanish Conquest?

In the aftermath of the Spanish conquest in Cusco in 1533, Qorikancha experienced an enormous transformation. Much of its gold and precious decorations were stripped away, and this once-important Inca complex was now under the rule of the Dominican religious order. The Spanish then built the Santo Domingo Convent and Church right over the ancient foundations, changing the Inca Empire’s most important spiritual center into a Catholic religious site.

Despite this, much of the original Inca stonework survived beneath the new colonial buildings. The catastrophic 1950 earthquake of Cusco damaged much of the Spanish convent, and exposed additional sections of the ancient Inca walls that lay beneath - which had previously remained hidden for centuries. Today visitors can witness this unique contrast of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture during a guided visit of Qorikancha, with the ancient Inca’s perfectly-fitted stone walls standing right next to the colonial structures and religious artwork.

How Luxury Travelers Can Effortlessly Visit Qorikancha Temple

Located right in the heart of the historic center, Qorikancha’s convenient location makes it an easy visit - and especially for luxury travelers who want to explore the city’s fascinating history without undertaking strenuous hikes or activity. Guests can enjoy a short private transfer from their hotel to the site, where your local expert guide will show you the various ancient temple chambers, relaxed courtyards and impressive Inca stonework. Even better if you are staying within the luxury Palacio del Inka hotel - which overlooks Qorikancha from your suite balcony - allowing for an easy morning visit before the crowds arrive.

Here at The Luxury Peru Travel Company, we can arrange a fully tailored private visit to Qorikancha as part of your Cusco itinerary - along with a stay in five-star hotels like the Palacio del Inka or similar. You can get in touch with our expert team who can combine a guided visit here with the historic Plaza de Armas or Saqsayhuamán Ruins, along with gourmet Peruvian cuisine lunch and seamless transport between all destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Qorikancha

Below we'll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about Qorikancha, as well as anything else important that you need to know.

How Long Do You Need To Explore Qorikancha?

The majority of guided visits to Qorikancha take roughly between 45-90 minutes, which is sufficient to explore the lower floor ancient temple foundations, colonial courtyards, Spanish art and the surrounding architectural features. With a private guide you can enjoy a more tailored and personal experience, as you learn about the site’s extraordinary history and significance at your own pace.

Is Qorikancha Worth Visiting?

Yes, Qorikancha is certainly worth visiting - and especially for travelers who are interested in discovering the fascinating merging of Inca and Spanish eras in just one site. Once decorated with sheets of gold by the Inca, this sacred temple remains one of the finest examples of traditional Inca stonework in Cusco, and visitors can witness the remarkable contrast of religious colonial features and influence along with Inca stonemasonry.

How Much Does It Cost To Enter Qorikancha?

The current entrance ticket to both Qorikancha Temple and the larger Santo Domingo Convent costs around S/20 per adult, although prices are subject to change and should be confirmed before your visit. It’s important to note that this site is not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket and must be bought separately. Luxury travelers should also pre-book private guides and Cusco transport in advance for the most comfortable experience.

Overview Of Visiting The Qorikancha Temple

And that’s all for this guide on the fascinating ancient Qorikancha Temple in Cusco.

Once the spiritual heart of the Inca Empire, Qorikancha remains one of the very best historic attractions to visit in all of Peru - let alone just here in the Andes. Here travelers can admire centuries-old stonework, learn about the ancient religious beliefs of the Inca, and also explore the impressive colonial architecture of the Santo Domingo Convent which was later constructed over the original temple.

Are you ready to explore Qorikancha and the very best highlights of Cusco? Here at The Luxury Peru Travel Company, we create unforgettable private journeys throughout Peru - complete with expert local guides, luxurious hotel stays, gourmet dining and much more. Get in touch with our travel planning experts now to begin creating your perfect luxury Peru vacation.