If you're planning a trip to Peru or just curious about its deep cultural roots, let us introduce you to one of the most fascinating places in Cusco: the Coricancha (also written Qorikancha), known as the Temple of the Sun. This site is not only a must-see during your visit to Cusco but also a powerful window into the spiritual and architectural legacy of the Inca Empire.
Coricancha: The Golden Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peru
Hello, dear reader! In this article, we’ll walk you through the history, meaning, and beauty of Coricancha, answer the most searched questions, and show you how to visit it with a trusted local agency like Peruvian Sunrise.
What is the Coricancha?
Coricancha, sometimes spelled Qorikancha, means “Golden Courtyard” in Quechua. This ancient temple was the most sacred site in the Inca Empire, dedicated primarily to Inti, the Sun God. In fact, it was the spiritual heart of the empire, the center of the Incan world.
Some travelers also search for “coricancha temple”, “temple of the sun peru”, or even “cusco coricancha” when planning their itinerary in Peru, and yes, they all refer to this same magnificent place in the heart of Cusco.
When was Coricancha built?
The Coricancha was believed to have been built during the reign of Pachacútec, around the 15th century, although there may have been an earlier temple at the same site. The temple was a symbol of power, spirituality, and wealth. Its walls were once covered in solid gold, and it housed idols of gold and silver, especially to honor various Inca deities.
When the Spanish arrived, they were so amazed by the wealth that they quickly took the gold and built the Santo Domingo Church right on top of the original temple, an act that symbolizes the conquest and religious replacement.
Who did the Coricancha honor?
One of the most common questions we get is: “Who was honored at the Coricancha Temple in Cusco?”
The Coricancha was built to honor Inti (the Sun God), but it wasn’t just dedicated to him. Inside the temple complex, there were sections for other important Inca deities such as:
- Pachamama (Mother Earth): a vital part of Andean cosmology
- Quilla (the Moon)
- Chasca (Venus and the stars)
- Illapa (Thunder)
So yes, to clarify all those questions like “who does the Coricancha temple in Cusco honor?” or “does the Coricancha honor Pachamama?”, the answer is: it honors Inti, Pachamama, and other important Inca deities.
Architecture of Coricancha
The temple is a stunning example of Inca stone masonry, known for its precision and earthquake-resistant design. The interlocking stones fit so perfectly that not even a piece of paper can pass between them. The contrast between the Inca base and the Spanish colonial church above it is visually striking, and deeply symbolic.
What to See at Coricancha?
Main Attractions:
When you visit Coricancha you’ll experience:
- Original Inca walls and chambers
- The impressive Santo Domingo Church built on top of the ruins
- A beautiful courtyard with stonework
- A small but informative museum below the temple
- Art, murals, and artifacts that tell the story of both Inca and colonial eras
Where is Coricancha located?
Coricancha is located in Cusco, Peru the historical capital of the Inca Empire, just a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. If you're already in Cusco, it's extremely easy to reach.
How to visit Coricancha: Tickets & Tours
Schedules:
- Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Sundays: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Ticket price:
- Approx. 15 soles (around $4 USD) for adults
- Discount available for students with their Student ID.
You can visit on your own, but to truly appreciate the temple’s meaning and history, we recommend joining a tour with an expert guide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Coricancha
What was Coricancha used for?
It was the main religious temple of the Inca Empire, used for ceremonies and offerings to the Sun and other deities.
Was Coricancha made of gold?
Yes! Its walls were originally covered in sheets of gold, and it was full of golden statues, making it one of the wealthiest temples ever seen by the Spanish.
Can I visit Coricancha today?
Absolutely. You can visit the remains of the original temple, walk through the museum, and explore the Church of Santo Domingo above it.
Why is Coricancha important?
It’s important both spiritually and architecturally, representing the height of Inca religious life and their mastery in engineering.
At Peruvian Sunrise, we help travelers connect deeply with Peru through tailor-made experiences. Whether you're looking for Peru family vacations, luxury Peru tours, or cultural immersion experiences in Peru, we can design your ideal journey with the best quality standards.
We include the Coricancha as part of many of our Peru travel packages, because we believe no trip to Cusco is complete without it. Basically, besides Machu Picchu, Coricancha is another must for your Peru Tour. You can also combine it with visits to Sacsayhuamán, the Sacred Valley, or even off-the-beaten-path experiences with locals.
Plan Your Trip to Peru Today!
Ready to walk through the golden temple that once amazed the Spanish conquistadors? Let us help you plan a journey that blends history, comfort, and deep cultural connection. Explore our Cusco tours.
Plan your trip now with Peruvian Sunrise — or contact us to build your dream itinerary.