Ollantaytambo — Buildings & Walls

There is a complex of buildings on the valley floor that is interesting, but not as impressive as the stonework on the hillside above. Here are some view of these lower buildings:

All of our guides had told us that when the Inkas made a doorway or window that was particularly special, either to be used by royalty or in conjunction with some sacred purpose, they made the frame around it double-indented, like the doorway on the left below. Which can tell you, I suppose, something about Henry's status, in the middle, or that of some tourists, on the right!

Here are two views of the lower complex from above. The one on the left gives a good overview of the lower buildings, plus the town and valley beyond (for more of these types of views, click here).

As you go up into the upper areas, you can't help but be constantly amazed by the quality of the Inka stonework:

Here are some more examples:

Beyond the complex that we visited, there are other ancient stoneworks across the valley, that you can see in this picture. For more of views of these structures, click here.

And from the buildings on the valley floor, such as this one, you can see the terraces extending up the hillside. For more views of these terraces and the steps leading to them, click here.

Ruins and terraces

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