Visiting Taqrachullo, also known as María Fortaleza, allows you to discover one of the most important archaeological sites in Espinar, Cusco. This place preserves evidence of Wari, Qolla/Cana, and Inca occupations, with more than 300 restored archaeological structures, including enclosures, stairways, fountains, kallankas, and walls. From its location, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the Tres Cañones de Suyckutambo area. In this article, we explain how to get there, what to see, and what tips to keep in mind to enjoy the experience.
What is Taqrachullo and why is it attracting attention?
It is an archaeological site with centuries of history. According to research, it was linked to Wari, Qolla, and Inca occupations. It covers approximately 17.4 hectares and contains more than 500 structures, including rectangular and circular enclosures, chullpas, retaining walls, and Inca roads. Its D-shaped ceremonial spaces and archaeological remains show its cultural importance. It is believed that it may have functioned as a center for surveillance, defense, or territorial control. At the end of 2024, the site was opened for tourist visits after a restoration process that recovered more than 300 archaeological structures. In recent years, Taqrachullo has gained greater attention thanks to research, restoration, and enhancement works, as it is located very close to the Tres Cañones Regional Conservation Area, created in 2017 to protect 39,485.11 hectares in this highland area of Cusco.
History of Taqrachullo: between María Fortaleza and the possible Ancocagua
Pre-Inca period: before the arrival of the Incas, small ethnic groups already existed in this area, making it an early settlement. Later, around 1000 AD, after the development of the Wari culture, the area was linked to the Canas, a group related to the Aymara lordships. According to chroniclers from the 16th and 17th centuries, this territory was dominated by the Canas and Canchis.
Inca period: during this period, the Cana nation was integrated into the Tawantinsuyo through a confederation with the Incas, becoming privileged allies. The Canas participated in battles against the Chancas and fulfilled administrative control functions along the route to Qollasuyo.
Colonial period: during this time, the Almagristas were the first to arrive in this area in search of “El Dorado” and settled in these lands because of their mineral resources. Estates such as Pucará and Totorani emerged, while Taqrachullo served as a refuge. In 1615, Cana, with Tinta as its capital, was part of Canas-Canchis under the rule of Cusco. Its inhabitants were forced to work in mines and obrajes under extreme conditions, as well as to provide labor for Cusco and the mines of Potosí.
Present day: María Fortaleza Taqrachullo was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2010. Together with Tres Cañones, it forms part of a Regional Conservation Area protected by MINAM. Its queñua forest is one of the most valuable features of the site. Recently, the Ministry of Culture completed research and restoration works, leaving this complex ready to receive visitors and share its history. On March 14, 2025, the book “María Fortaleza Taqrachullo” was presented by archaeologist Emerson Pereyra Pacheco, a publication that summarizes the research and enhancement works carried out at the archaeological monument.
Taqrachullo or María Fortaleza: are they the same place?
Yes. María Fortaleza is also known as Taqrachullo, which means it can be referred to by either name. The original name of the archaeological center is Taqrachullo, a name that refers to the first ayllus of the area. Over time, during the colonial period, the Spaniards began to rename it María Fortaleza, the name by which the site is known today.
Where is María Fortaleza Taqrachullo located?
The archaeological site is located in the rural community of Chaupimayo, district of Suyckutambo, province of Espinar, Cusco region. It is located at an approximate altitude of 4,102 m a.s.l.
What can you see in the archaeological complex of Taqrachullo?
In this archaeological center, visitors can observe the following elements:
Rectangular, quadrangular, and circular enclosures: these are stone structures with oval corners, distributed throughout the archaeological site. They were built with roughly stacked stone blocks, demonstrating the skill of the ancient inhabitants. Walking through these spaces allows visitors to imagine how daily life may have developed in the ancient settlement. In addition, circular enclosures that functioned as dwellings can also be observed at the site.
D-shaped ceremonial public building: located in sector B, it stands out for its design, typical of the Wari culture. Built during the Middle Horizon, its east-facing orientation connects with two levels where meetings and rituals were held. Inside, different spaces can be seen, such as a main hall, a rectangular enclosure, and a quadrangular one, as well as a water fountain with a small channel. Its layout shows the relevance it had within the community.
Dwellings, workshops, and qolqas: most of the circular enclosures correspond to the Late Intermediate Period and were used as dwellings. During the Inca period, circular buildings were constructed and served as workshops and qolqas; some of these structures have trapezoidal niches. It is also possible to observe semicircular buildings with curved walls that reveal the engineering skills of pre-Hispanic civilizations.
Inca kallankas: these are rectangular constructions that functioned as communal spaces. Several kallankas have been identified in María Fortaleza, some with up to four entrances. One of them is located in sector A, near the main road, while another is in sector C, with two entrance openings. It is believed that these structures provided shelter for travelers, chasquis, and soldiers who traveled along the roads of the Inca Empire.
Funerary structures: chullpas, cists, and pits: these are circular stone structures where ancestors were buried, following Andean funerary customs. There are two types of chullpas: circular and quadrangular. Inside them, mummies have been found along with ceremonial objects. Underground tombs and pits were also found, where several individuals were deposited. These burials show the importance of ancestor worship in the region.
Inca roads and stairways: there are two main roads. One, in the lower section, connects sector A with sector E, while the other crosses sectors E and C toward sector D. There are also zigzag stairways that facilitate access to different levels of the site.
Retaining walls: built with stones arranged in a rustic manner. Their inclination varies between 4° and 10°, which gives them stability on sloping terrain. These structures were key to supporting the different levels of the complex and preventing landslides.
How to get to Taqrachullo from Cusco
From Cusco, the bus trip to Espinar takes approximately between 5 and 6 hours. From the city of Espinar, visitors must take local road transportation for approximately 45 minutes to Suyckutambo and Taqrachullo.
Taqrachullo and its relationship with the Tres Cañones de Suykutambo
The Tres Cañones viewpoint is located southeast of the archaeological site and offers a 360° panoramic view of the canyons formed by the Apurímac River and its tributaries. From here, visitors can observe the deep Virginniyoc Canyon, the queñua forests, and the clear sky of the Cusco puna. It is a natural viewpoint from which to admire the Andean landscape in all its magnitude.
Best time to visit Taqrachullo in Espinar
The climate in Taqrachullo is cold and dry throughout the year, with an approximate annual temperature of 6.6 °C. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 16.3 °C, while at night they can drop to -4.4 °C.
You can visit María Fortaleza Taqrachullo all year round, but the best time is between May and September, when the weather is dry and there is less rainfall. During these months, clear skies allow visitors to enjoy the Andean landscapes more clearly and take excursions and adventures with fewer weather-related inconveniences.
Is Taqrachullo bigger than Machu Picchu?
Some recent publications have compared the size of Taqrachullo with Machu Picchu; however, this information should be presented with caution, as figures vary depending on the source and the area considered.
Tips for visiting the Taqrachullo fortress
To visit Taqrachullo, keep the following recommendations in mind:
Wear comfortable clothing that is resistant to wind and cold, especially if visiting in the morning or at sunset.
Bring water and some snacks, such as nuts or fruit, as there are no shops near the site.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat.
Carry more than one liter of water to stay hydrated.
Do not alter the structures and avoid leaving waste in the area.
Bring cash.
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