Coricancha

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Definition

The religious complex of Coricancha (Qorikancha) in the Inca capital at Cuzco contained the Temple of the Sun which was not only the most sacred site or huaca in the Inca religion but was considered the very centre of the Inca world. The site was also known as the Golden Enclosure and was dedicated to the highest gods in the Inca pantheon such as the Creator god Viracocha, the moon goddess Quilla and especially to Inti, the god of the sun. Little remains today except some sections of its fine stone walls which hint at the site's once massive size and the legendary stories which tell of the enormous quantity of gold used to decorate the temples and its golden garden.

More about: Coricancha

Timeline

  • c. 1100
    The Inca, led by Manco Capac, migrate to the Cuzco Valley and establish their capital at Cuzco.
  • c. 1425 - 1532
    The Inca Empire flourishes in South America.
  • 1438
    Pachacunti Inca Yupanqui begins a rebuilding programme in the Inca capital of Cuzco.
  • 15 Nov 1533
    Francisco Pizarro takes the Inca capital of Cuzco.
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