Saqsaywaman (also spelled Sacsayhuaman) is the great megalithic complex that crowns the hills above Cusco. Far more than a fortress, it was a ceremonial, administrative and defensive centre of the Inca Empire—and one of its most extraordinary building achievements.
What Saqsaywaman is
Saqsaywaman is an Inca archaeological complex of massive stone walls, terraces and esplanades overlooking Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. In Inca urban planning, Cusco's layout was said to form a puma, with Saqsaywaman as the puma's head and its zigzag walls as the animal's teeth or mane.
Who built it
Construction is attributed to the Inca Empire at its height, under rulers such as Pachacuti and his successors, using the labour of tens of thousands of workers. The largest stones weigh an estimated 100–128 tons and were fitted without mortar—an achievement of Inca stonemasonry that still resists earthquakes today.
The 1536 revolt and colonial demolition
In 1536 Manco Inca led a rebellion against the Spanish, and Saqsaywaman became the bloody focal point of the siege of Cusco. After the uprising failed, the Spanish dismantled much of the site, rolling the smaller blocks down the hill to build the colonial churches and houses of Cusco. What survives is estimated at only about 20% of the original complex.
Saqsaywaman today
Today Saqsaywaman is a major heritage site and the stage for Inti Raymi, the re-enactment of the Inca Sun Festival held every June 24 on its central esplanade—the most important cultural event in Cusco.
Visitor information last verified: October 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saqsaywaman?
Saqsaywaman is a megalithic Inca complex of massive stone walls and esplanades above Cusco, Peru. It served as a ceremonial, administrative and defensive centre of the Inca Empire.
Who built Saqsaywaman?
It was built by the Inca Empire at its height, attributed to rulers such as Pachacuti, using the labour of tens of thousands of workers. The largest stones weigh an estimated 100–128 tons.
How much of Saqsaywaman remains?
After the Spanish colonial demolition, only about 20% of the original complex is thought to survive—yet that remaining fifth is still enormous and impressive.