Overview
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) was the Inca Empire's most sacred site, its walls once covered in sheets of gold — 'Qorikancha' means 'golden enclosure.' After the Spanish conquest, the gold was stripped and the Church of Santo Domingo was built on top, creating a unique fusion of Inca stone walls and colonial architecture. The precision stonework (so tight that not even a sheet of paper fits between stones) is best observed here, and the astronomical alignment that sends sunlight directly onto the altar at the solstice is remarkable. Admission PEN 15. 5-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.
Opening Hours
Mon-Sat 08:30-17:30, Sun 14:00-17:00
Travel Tips
Pay close attention to the contrast between Inca walls and the Spanish church above. An audio guide helps you imagine the temple's golden-era splendor.
Hotels near Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Hotels and guesthouses in Cusco, Centro, Cusco
Other attractions in Cusco
Machu Picchu
The Inca sky city perched at 2,430m in the Andes — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Sacsayhuamán
An Inca fortress built from massive stone blocks — the precision masonry is astonishing.
Plaza de Armas
The heart of Cusco — a central square dating back to Inca times, anchored by a striking cathedral.
San Pedro Market
A vibrant traditional market offering a window into the daily life of Cusco locals.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
A mountain at 5,200m with rainbow-colored stripes — Peru's hottest new trekking destination.
Sacred Valley of the Incas
A sacred valley along the Urubamba River, dotted with Inca ruins and Andean landscapes.
San Blas Neighborhood
Cusco's artisan quarter, a hillside neighborhood with workshops, galleries, and cozy cafes.