The Cutimbo Archaeological Center attracts attention for its impressive set of chullpas, funerary structures used by ancient Andean cultures. This site not only attracts history enthusiasts but also offers a deep connection with the ancestral worldview of pre-Inca peoples and their relationship with nature.
Cutimbo stands out as an important pre-Inca site that reflects the funerary and religious practices of Andean civilizations. Today, it remains a living testament to the rich cultural history of the region and is a must-stop for those wanting to explore the legacy of the peoples who inhabited the Andes before the arrival of the Incas.
Cutimbo: A Monumental Cemetery in the Peruvian Altiplano
The term “monumental cemetery” describes the magnitude and impressive structure of the chullpas in Cutimbo, used by Andean cultures such as the Qolla and the Incas to bury their leaders. These large stone funerary towers are strategically placed on a hill, offering a spectacular view that reflects the symbolic connection between the dead and the gods in the Andean worldview.
Cutimbo is not just a monumental cemetery, but also an example of the spiritual beliefs of pre-Inca peoples. Its location in the Altiplano highlights the cultural and religious importance of this site, while the chullpas, with their majesty, add significant aesthetic and cultural value.
History of the Cutimbo Archaeological Center
The name Cutimbo comes from the Quechua “kuti” (to return) and “mbo” (place), which could be interpreted as “place of return”, related to spiritual beliefs about death as a transition to another plane. The site is located near Lake Umayo in Puno, Peru, and is accessible from the city of Puno.
Cutimbo was inhabited by the Colla culture between the 10th and 15th centuries, known for their advanced agricultural practices and funerary architecture. During the Inca Empire, Cutimbo was integrated into the Tahuantinsuyo, but the Colla funerary traditions persisted. The chullpas, tower-like funerary structures, are the main feature of the site, and some had complex structures with burial chambers and niches for the mummies. These chullpas were built with finely carved stone blocks, joined with minimal clay mortar, and always oriented towards the East.
Today, archaeologists continue to study the chullpas of different shapes and sizes at Cutimbo, an important protected archaeological site. The place is a valuable cultural testimony of the ancient Andean civilizations and remains a fascinating destination for those interested in pre-Inca history.
The Chullpas of Cutimbo: Architecture and Meaning
The chullpas of Cutimbo are the main attraction of the archaeological site. These funerary structures are stone constructions, some over 10 meters tall, that served as tombs for the elites and leaders of Andean cultures. Below is a brief description of the main chullpas and their architectural features:
| MAIN TYPES OF CHULLPAS | DESCRIPTION |
| Main Chullpa | It is believed to be the tomb of an important leader from the Qolla culture. Its square shape and perfectly aligned stones demonstrate the architectural skill of the time. |
| Square Shaped Chullpas | Unlike the cylindrical chullpas found in other locations like Sillustani, Cutimbo features several chullpas with a square or rectangular shape, a distinctive feature of its funerary architecture. |
| Hill Chullpa | This chullpa is located on top of a hill, likely symbolizing a religious connection, linking the deceased to the sky. |
| Chullpas with Niches | Some chullpas feature small niches on their walls, suggesting that the bodies were placed in these vertical spaces. |
| Funerary Chullpas with an Entrance | Some chullpas have a small door or entrance at the base, likely used for placing offerings and ritual objects. |
| Circular Chullpas | These were built to house the most important members of the Colla and Lupaca cultures, typically leaders or individuals of high rank. |
| Rectangular Chullpas | Less common, these chullpas have a rectangular structure. Although they are fewer in number, they also represent an important variant in Cutimbo’s funerary architecture. |
Location and How to Get to Cutimbo
The Cutimbo Archaeological Center is located in the south of Peru. It is situated in the Altiplano, placing it in an area of great natural beauty, surrounded by Andean mountains and valleys.
| HOW TO GET THERE | DESCRIPTION |
| Taxi | From Puno, you can take a taxi that will take you directly to Cutimbo. |
| Bus | There are public buses that go to Cutimbo from Puno, although the service is less frequent. |
| Private Tour | MachuPicchu Sacred offers tours from Puno to Cutimbo, which is ideal for those looking for a guided and comfortable experience. |
| Hiking | Although it’s possible to hike from Puno, the distance and altitude make this option not the most recommended, especially if you haven’t had enough time to acclimatize. |
Hours, Entry Price, and Recommendations
- Monday to Sunday: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM.
Entry Price:
- General Entry: S/ 10 (approximately $2.50 USD).
- Students (with ID): S/ 5 (approximately $1.25 USD).
Recommendations:
- Acclimatize to the altitude: Due to its high altitude, it is recommended to spend at least a couple of days in Puno before visiting Cutimbo.
- Bring water and snacks: The tour may take several hours, so it’s important to bring water and some light food.
- Comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and proper footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun is strong at this altitude.
- Photograph responsibly: Take photos but respect the site’s rules, avoiding the use of flash.
- Layered clothing: Temperatures can vary, so it’s recommended to dress in layers.
- Respect the site: Cutimbo is a sacred site, so it’s important to show respect for the structures and local culture.
- Do not touch the chullpas: To preserve the site, do not touch the archaeological structures.
- Do not leave trash: Help keep the site clean and well-maintained for future generations.
- Enjoy the surroundings: Take the time to relax and connect with the nature and history of the region.
