Qusqo
| Qusqo | |
|---|---|
| The Hatunllaqta of Qusqo |
Qusqo, formally the Hatunllaqta of Qusqo , is the capital city of the Vamu, and the second largest city in terms of population. It has historical landmarks like the Temples of the Sun, Moon and Earth, and is display of the step-tiered architecture of the Kakanqui. At the second highest step-tier of the city is the Intivawhuasi, the residence of the Intivaw and the Ueyiayllu and the centre of administration. It is also home to many major historical sites, such as the Temples of the Sun, Moon and Earth, the Intivawhuasi, and the Three Flower Forts. It is made also known as the City of the Clouds (Phuyullaqta), Rainbow City (Kuychillaqta, due to it's vibrant and various coloured buildings).
Qusqo (Qusqi: qsq; formally, the Hatunllaqta of Qusqo), is the capital city of the Vamu, and the second largest city in the nation. It lies in the Waukancha valley, surrounded by mountains on three sides. The Yaqumay river flows through the city, being channeled into two canals that fall into Lake Qinqin. It is the seat of power of the Intivaw and government, and the residence of the Ueyiayllu. It was founded sometime in the 1100s XY, officially in the year 1102 as per the record of the founding of the Intikancha by king (placeholder). It is presumed to have been a holy site prior to this, and over time became the most significant pilgrimage location of Cukuy.
The city of Qusqo is divided into two halves - Hanan Qusqo, or Upper Qusqo, which sits on the step-layers and is the older part. It is highly organized and is composed of larger and older buildings. The other half is Hurin-Qusqo or Lower Qusqo, which is situated below the Purepecha cliff. Hurin-Qusqo is rapidly expanding, and is newer and much less organized, composed of hundreds of smaller houses. The two rivers Chumbi and Purik are integrated into the city, made into two canals running on two sides of Hanan-Qusqo. They flow down the Purepecha cliff into Lake Cincin. Hanan-Qusqo is divided into ten 'steps'. These steps are grouped in four categories, named thaqiy. These thaqiy are:
- Willka-Thaqiy: The 10th and 9th step-layers, on which are the Three Temples and the Intivawhuasi.
- Ueyi-Thaqiy: The 8th and 7th step-layers, on which are various government buildings.
- Wata-Thaqiy: The 6th and 5th step-layers, on which public utilities and establishments are located.
- Wasi-Thaqiy: The 4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st step-layers, on which are houses.