The stone buildings were all made to last, to resist not only the onslaught of the elements, as the case may be, that of enemies, but also that of time, implacable. In the Colca, the fortress of Chimpa stands tall, imposing, in full view of visitors. An exhibition of the work of our ancestors that adds attraction to the región.
The archeological site os located at the top of the Chimpa hill. The ascent takes about an hour and a half. Its strategic location allows you to enjoy a spectacular view of the Colca Valley. The fortress was the work of Collaguas, who also incorporated an observatory for the deepest section of the Canyon.
The fortress is actually a ceremonial complex that overlooks the towns of Madrigal, Lari, Ichupampa, Pinchollo, Cabanaconde and Tapay, all within sight. A strong wall three meters high and two meters thick borders the complex. Inside, a narrow tunnel, through which a small person can barely pass, is the only access to the tower where the magic-religious ceremonies took place.
An important part of the complex is the set of Chimpa Tombs, where bone remains, textile remnants, ceramic fragments and ancient instruments were found. Also, nearby, the famous Chimpa Window, a whimsical rock formation from which the Canyon looks especially impressive. And we cannot leave aside the litho models of the fortress and surroundings, with the design of the terraces and the irrigation systems of each one. An irrefutable proof of the ingenuity of the builders.
The complex totals some 5,000 square meters, including an área with paintings depicting the agricultural activity of the ancient inhabitants of the región and, beyond that, a set of colcas, sort of seasonal warehouses for the place.
The Fortress was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2011, by the Ministry of Culture. Since then, the number of visitors to the site has increased and everyone leaves impressed. Undoubtedly, a transcendent work.
Condensed from Rutas magazine.
