Temple of Raqchi

Temple of Raqchi Review

The ruins of this large temple in the ancient town of Raqchi give little indication of their original purpose, but if size counts, then they are truly impressive. Huge external walls up to 12 meters (39 feet) high still tower overhead. You'll be forgiven for thinking that the place was once an Inca version of the Colossium, or a football stadium. Legend has it that the Temple of Raqchi was built in homage to the god Viracocha, to ask his intercession in keeping the nearby Quimsa Chata volcano in check. The ploy worked only some of the time. The site, with its huge adobe walls atop a limestone foundation, performed multiple duty as temple, fortress, barracks, and storage facility.