Qorikancha
Cusco, Peru · Landmark
About Qorikancha
Qorikancha was the most sacred and magnificent temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the Sun God Inti. When Spanish conquistadors arrived, they stripped its gold-lined walls and built the Santo Domingo Convent directly on top of the original Inca foundations. Today, it stands as the most dramatic architectural symbol in Cusco of the collision and blending between Inca and colonial cultures.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the curved exterior wall of ashlar masonry that withstood major earthquakes when colonial structures collapsed.
- Walk through the intact interior Inca chambers that were once dedicated to celestial deities like the Moon, Stars, and Rainbow.
- Stroll through the manicured Spanish Renaissance cloister and arcaded courtyards built atop the ancient foundations.
- View the museum collection displaying colonial paintings from the Cusco School alongside archaeological artifacts.
Plan your visit
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest tour groups. The dry season from May to October offers the clearest weather for viewing the outdoor gardens and architecture.
Admission is paid at the entrance on arrival, and it is not included in the standard Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico). Advance booking is generally not required.
Qorikancha is located in Cusco's historic center, just a five-minute walk southeast from the Plaza de Armas along Avenida El Sol.
Tips for visiting
- Hire an official guide at the entrance to fully appreciate the complex history and engineering techniques.
- Examine the mortarless Inca stonework up close to notice how the trapezoidal joints fit together seamlessly.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for stone courtyards and slight steps.
- Visit the sunken gardens below the temple complex afterward for great photos of the curved walls.
- Take your time adjusting to Cusco's high altitude before doing extensive walking through the site.
Qorikancha FAQ
Is Qorikancha included in the Boleto Turístico?
No, entry to Qorikancha requires a separate entrance ticket purchased directly on site. The underground municipal museum in the garden below has historically used the Boleto Turístico, but the main temple complex requires its own admission fee.
Why did the Inca walls survive earthquakes when colonial buildings fell?
Inca masons cut stones with interlocking shapes, slight inward tilts, and pillow-faced curves that allowed the blocks to shift during seismic tremors and settle back into place. Spanish mortar-and-stone construction lacked this seismic flexibility, causing colonial arches to collapse during major earthquakes in 1650 and 1950.
Are photography and video allowed inside?
Photography is permitted in most open-air courtyards, the gardens, and the stone Inca chambers. However, flash photography and photos of certain sacred religious artworks inside the convent rooms may be restricted.
Is Qorikancha wheelchair accessible?
The main cloister level has ramps and flat areas that are relatively accessible for visitors with limited mobility. However, some historical stone thresholds, raised doorways, and garden paths include steps that may require assistance.
More things to do in Cusco
Saqsaywamán Landmark
Marvel at the colossal zig-zag stone fortress overlooking Cusco, showcasing Inca engineering at its most impressive.
Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral Landmark
Stroll through the grand main square and admire the centuries-old colonial cathedral built over an Inca palace.
San Pedro Market Shopping
Immerse yourself in sensory overload with aisles of exotic fruits, local street foods, herbs, and textiles.
San Blas Neighborhood Neighborhood
Wander up steep cobblestone streets filled with artisan workshops, cozy cafes, and panoramic sunset viewpoints.
Sacred Valley Tour Activity
Take a day trip to explore the massive terraces of Ollantaytambo, the market in Pisac, and the salt pans of Maras.
Pre-Columbian Art Museum (MAP) Museum
Discover exquisite ancient pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings housed in an elegant colonial courtyard mansion.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Nature
Trek high into the Andes to witness breathtaking mineral-striped peaks set against snow-capped mountains.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: KarloManson on Pixabay.