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The most important Inca archaeological site in Cusco is the temple of Qorikancha. It also happens to be one of the most important Spanish colonial churches in the city.
History
Once the richest Inca temple, Qorikancha was covered with gold plated walls. All of the gold was stripped by the Spaniards and the Convent of Santo Domingo (Convento de Santo Domingo) was built on top of the temple in 1534. The church and convent were founded by Juan Pizarro, brother of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. The church wasn’t completed and consecrated until 1633.
Sacred Garden
Outside of the convent is a large grassy field called the Sacred Garden (Jardín Sagrado). From there, you can get incredible panoramic views of the entire convent and the remains of the temple it was built on top of. You can try to imagine what it looked like before the Spaniards arrived, with the original Inca walls plated in gold.
Qorikancha Site Museum
Underneath the field is the Qorikancha Site Museum (Museo de Sitio Qorikancha). This museum contains Inca artifacts and a brief history of the temple. It’s not very interesting but it’s included in the Cusco Touristic Ticket (Boleto Turístico). It’s also the sales point for the touristic ticket.
Convent and Temple
Admission to the actual convent and temple is S/15 (as of May 2024), and it’s not included on the Cusco Touristic Ticket. You first walk through a small room with a few artifacts and paintings. Next, you enter the courtyard. One of the rooms attached to it is full of religious art and paintings.
As you walk around the courtyard, notice the walls and the ceilings. Surrounding the inner walls are several large paintings. The ceiling is very beautifully decorated with intricately detailed tiles placed between wooden slats.
Remains of the original temple of Qorikancha are located on two sides of the courtyard.
Near one part of the temple you will find an original Inca plate made of pure gold and decorated with several symbols.
If you walk outside, you will see great views of the Sacred Garden and the convent.
