We currently find ourselves perched high among the clouds in Cusco, elevation 11,000 feet. Cusco was the capital of the Inca empire and the reputed navel of the world. It remains an important city in modern times, but the highlights of the city certainly are found in its past.
Our exploration of Cusco began at Saqsaywaman, the Inca fortress that sits on a butte overlooking the city and is built of enormous stones. Here, we met our National Geographic expert, Peter Frost, who took us on a day-long tour of the ruins. Saqsaywaman played an important role during the conquest, as it was an Inca stronghold in Manco Inca's rebellion. In time, the Spainards were able to use their advantageous horses, metal amour, and firearms to capture the fortress which, according to Mr. Frost, was one of the most significant turning points in the fight for Peru. Mr. Frost followed up the tour with a private meeting with the Archeology On Assignment team to discuss their projects and offer his expertise.
The next day our exploration continued with Mr. Frost to Qorikancha, a Spanish cathedral literally built on the foundations of the most sacred of Inca shrines. In the afternoon, the group was able to observe a shaman ritual. Shaman are Andean spiritual leaders who are considered to have the ability to communicate with higher powers. Our shaman performed a ritual to provide safety and enjoyment for the remainder of our journey through Peru and a safe return home, in addition to a fruitful journey throughout life. So we have that going for us… which is nice!
It is difficult to encapsulate our days prior to Cusco in a single blog, but highlights include hiking and camping in the high Andes, peaking at an elevation (according to our GPS) of 14,737 feet. Teddi from Ohio wrote in her journal that , "the scenery was phenomenal and the little children rushing to greet us by the roadside made the hike worth it. Prisitine lakes, glacial streams, herds of alpaca, traditional huts, and sweeping grasslands stretched as far as the eye could see and up into the clouds." Our campsite was conveniently located among a series of hot springs. Sawsan from Abu Dhabi reflected that, "before we knew it we were taking a dip in the hot springs in Lares, reflecting on a long day whose every minute of exhaustion was well worth it."
In other days, we also explored the ruins of Moray, the salt mines of Salinas, and were treated to a demonstration by a woman's weaving cooperative in the small town of Chinchero where they practice age old weaving techniques.
Additionally, we continue to break out into our On Assignment teams and have begun to focus the bulk of our energies on our final projects.
Goodbye for now,
Joseph, Brenna, Sarah, and Mark
