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Pisac

Just like all the cities in Cusco, Pisac is an important archaeological center that encompasses the mystical Incan constructions, in contrast to the natural richness of the Urubamba Valley.

Although it is very difficult to know the autochthonous names of Cusco`s ancient cities, Pisac is one of the few examples of original names that are known. It derives from the Quechua word ""pisaq"" or ""p`isaqa"", which means partridge (a gallinacean type that abounds in this area). According to the traditional Incan architecture, the cities were built based on figurative designs of animals. Pisac was partridge-shaped, as we can tell from its name

Pisac is a district of the Calca province, located at 32 km to the northeast of Cusco. Its altitude comprises 2,950 m.a.s.l.

Pisac does not escape from the famous Incan legends. The city presents a statue that has a very particular legend.

It is said that the cacique Huayllapuma had a daughter called Inquill; who had to get married with the man that could be able to build, just in one night, the bridge over the Vilacmayo River (a very significant bridge for the defense of the place). In spite of the hard work, Asto Rimac, a handsome prince, decided to take the challenge and ask for the hand of the princess. The authorities of the place arranged everything so Asto Rimac could start the work; meanwhile, the princess had to climb a hill without turning round; because, otherwise, she and her fiancé would turn into rock. Almost at dawn, the prince finished the work but Inquill could not stand any longer and turned round thus becoming a stone figure up to now.