Where stone comes to life and the gods still dwell, deep in the Peruvian Andes, just a few kilometers from Cusco’s historic center, there is a place where time stood still and the gods carved their legacy in stone. The Abode of the Gods is not just a tourist site—it’s a spiritual, artistic, and cultural experience that connects the ancestral past with the present.
Cusco sculptor Michael de Titán Monteagudo Mejía is the creator of the monumental sculptures that adorn La Morada de los Dioses. His work is inspired by the worldview of Andean cultures, blending myths, spirituality, and traditions of pre-Hispanic peoples, with a special focus on Inca culture.
Monteagudo began carving these large-scale sculptures around 2015, using natural rock formations in the community of Sencca, Poroy district. His goal was to create a space to honor the Andean gods and Peru’s cultural identity, combining art, spirituality, and nature.
Among his most well-known sculptures at the site are: The face of the Inca, Pachamama (Mother Earth), the puma, the condor, and the amaru, ceremonial masks and faces. Most sculptures were made by hand, without heavy machinery, using chisels, hammers, and traditional tools, adding even more value to his work.
"Apukunaq Tianan" comes from Quechua and means “the abode of the Apus (mountain guardian gods).” According to Andean beliefs, Apus are spiritual protectors who dwell in the mountains. This space was designed to honor Peru’s early peoples and their deep spiritual legacy.
This sacred land has been revered since pre-Inca times. According to some stories, the Apus appeared to locals through dreams or visions, offering guidance. Others claim it was a spiritual connection center where wise men or paqos (currently known as healers) came to meditate and communicate with the gods. Although the sculptures are modern, they are inspired by these ancestral stories and mythologies, reviving the region’s spiritual memory.
La Morada de los Dioses is located in the community of Sencca, Poroy district, about 13 kilometers from downtown Cusco. At 3,850 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by mountains, farmland, and stunning Andean scenery.
The main access is a gravel road that reaches the site. It’s also common to arrive by bike or hiking, as there are adventure routes through rural Andean landscapes. The path is suitable for all visitors, though some areas have slopes, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
From downtown Cusco, there are three ways to reach the site:
The first thing that strikes visitors is the monumentality of the sculptures. Carved directly into the rock, some reach 8 to 10 meters in height. Among the most impressive are:
The sculptural ensemble is surrounded by green mountains, dirt paths, and fresh air. The entire place conveys an atmosphere of respect, mysticism, and connection with the ancestral.
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season), when the weather is more stable and paths are in better condition.
What to bring:
Altitude: At nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, it’s important to acclimate if coming from lower altitudes. Avoid sudden exertion and stay hydrated.
Dare to discover La Morada de los Dioses and connect with the essence of the Andes, where art, history, and spirituality merge in eternal stone.
Happy passengers
