The Ruins of Tipon
Move over Versailles, the Inca are coming! At least, that is the impression that the ruins of the palatial complex at Tipon give the visitor. As with most prehispanic ruins in the Andes, exactly who built this place and why is not known. We do know that Tipon was built during the Inca empire, and it seems likely that the complex served as a place of leisure for the Cuzco elite as well as a place of ceremonies.
Situated in a draw well up the side of the eastern ridge of the Cuzco valley, Tipon is a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering. A series of channels brought water from high in the mountains to the east to feed a complex system of fountains and baths that stretched across twelve platforms, three temples, a residential complex and what may have been a small fortress. Many of the channels still carry water and a couple of the fountains and baths still work, although it looks like they have been restored somewhat in the last few years.
The site was quite an experience. We hope you enjoy the pictures!
