20 November 2015 ~ Pisaq

Listening to: Elvin Bishop ~ What the Hell is Going On

Heading towards our first Incan Ruin at the Pisaq Archeological Park, we were tempted to try the Coca Candy.

Basically it was dried coca leaves that you are to chew (but not swallow). Arrghh. It tasted Horrible. I couldn't even keep it in my mouth for 30 seconds! It tasted like moldy green tea (or I am assuming, since I've never had moldy green tea).

The Inca constructed agricultural terraces on the steep hillside, which are still in use today, enabling the production of food surplus, at altitudes as high as 11,000 feet.

The word Pisaq comes from the word 'pisaqa' meaning partridge, a bird species that still can be seen flying here at dusk.

Pisaq served a triple purpose: military, religious and agricultural. It was most likely built no earlier than 1440 and was destroyed by Spanish conquerors in the 1530s.

This cemetery built into the hillside holds almost 3000 graves.

We didn't have time to shop with the local sellers here.

I will be heading off for another adventure tomorrow, and unable to post until after December 1st, so please check back then.

For those who celebrate, have a grand Thanksgiving!