Understanding Sacsayhuaman | The Mystery of Qocha Chincanas

In my last video, I explained the geology of the blocks of Sacsayhuaman, and because there are natural veins of calcite running through them, and also because there are natural outcrops of the same rock type in the vicinity of the structure, it is now somewhat conclusive that what the walls of this fortress are made from are cut blocks of natural stone. This is all based on the geological findings of a team of scientists who investigated the site back in 2012.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/oKrlR_DUXtY

In this video, I’ll be taking a look at this large circular feature just to the north of Sacsayhuaman, situated right next to the famous Rodadero Formation, which are the natural lava flows known by many as the Inca Slides.

This mysterious circular feature is known as Qocha Chincanas. It almost looks like some kind of arena, but some believe it is an Inca graveyard. On its far side there is the natural sacred spring of Calispucyo, where it is said that ceremonies took place, initiating boys into manhood. Excavations here have uncovered crystals and shells, some originating in Ecuador, and such finds are often associated with water veneration.

In Quenchua, the term qocha refers to a lake, pool or pond, either natural or artificial. Because of the natural spring next to Qocha Chincanas, it is therefore very possible that this round structure was in fact an artificial pond, maybe for ceremonial or maybe for practical purposes, maybe both. It’s possible it also had some agricultural use, maybe linked to ancient canals for irrigation purposes.

Back in 2012, the geophysicists scanned Qocha Chincanas and they discovered that not only was this structure a deep bowl-like structure, it also contained a number of strange internal features.

What is the true nature of Qocha Chincanas?

Watch this video to learn more!

All images are taken from Google Images and the below sources for educational purposes only.