Moray Terraces | Sacred Valley

The Moray Terraces are an extraordinary archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Cusco, Peru. The site is renowned for its unique terraces arranged in a circular formation, which were likely used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation and research. Moray is one of the most fascinating Inca ruins due to its unusual and advanced agricultural techniques that have puzzled historians and archaeologists for years.

1. Historical and Cultural Significance

Moray was a key agricultural research and experimentation site for the Inca Empire. The terraces at Moray are believed to have been used to test different crops and growing conditions, particularly to study how different varieties of plants would perform at various altitudes and temperatures. The terraces allowed the Incas to mimic the diverse climates of the Andean region, from high-altitude cold climates to lower, warmer conditions.

The Inca’s ability to adapt to different agricultural environments was essential to their survival, as they inhabited a vast and geographically diverse empire. The use of terraces allowed for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, from maize to potatoes, and Moray may have been a center for training agricultural specialists and experimenting with these techniques.

2. The Structure of Moray

The Moray site consists of several circular terraces, which are the main feature of the site. The terraces are built in a concentric circular pattern, and each terrace represents a different altitude zone, with the lowest terraces being warmer and the higher ones cooler. This sophisticated design created microclimates within the terraces, allowing the Incas to grow different crops in varying conditions.

Key Features of the Moray Terraces:

• Circular Design: The terraces at Moray are arranged in a series of four concentric circular formations, which create a stair-step effect as they descend. The terraces vary in size, with the largest and deepest circle being the most impressive.
• Altitude Variation: The terraces are designed to simulate different altitudes, with the lowest terraces being situated at the bottom of the circular depressions and the highest terraces positioned around the outer edges. This variation in height and exposure to the sun created different temperature zones, which the Incas used to experiment with crops from different regions of the empire.
• Stone Walls: Each terrace is separated by stone walls, which helped to retain moisture and protect the plants from the wind. The walls were likely used to maintain the microclimates within each terrace, trapping heat in the lower levels and protecting crops from the cold at higher levels.
• Central Structure: In the middle of the Moray site, there is a small central platform, which may have been used for ceremonial purposes, rituals, or as a base for overseeing the agricultural experiments.

3. Purpose and Use

The exact purpose of the Moray Terraces remains a topic of debate among archaeologists, but there are several theories about why the Incas built this site:

• Agricultural Research: The most widely accepted theory is that the terraces were used for agricultural experimentation. The varying temperatures and altitudes allowed the Incas to test different crops and determine the best growing conditions for each one. This knowledge would have been critical for maintaining a steady food supply throughout the empire, especially given the wide range of altitudinal zones within the Andes.
• Crop Domestication: The Incas may have used the terraces to domesticate and selectively breed crops, such as maize, potatoes, and quinoa, by manipulating the growing conditions to optimize production. This experimentation helped the Incas maintain a food surplus and sustain their empire.
• Sacred Site: Another theory is that Moray may have had religious or ceremonial significance. Some scholars suggest that the circular shape of the terraces could have symbolized the Inca’s connection to the cosmos or the cycles of the sun. The central platform may have been used for ritual offerings to the Inca gods.

4. Visitor Experience

Moray is a popular destination for tourists exploring the Sacred Valley. The site is easily accessible from Cusco, and it is often included in tours that visit other nearby attractions, such as Salinas de Maras and Ollantaytambo. The site offers visitors a chance to explore Inca agricultural innovations and marvel at the impressive architectural feats of the Incas.

• Hiking and Photography: Visitors can explore the terraces and walk down to the lowest levels, providing an opportunity to appreciate the intricate design and impressive scale of the site. The terraces also offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding mountains and valleys in the background.
• Guided Tours: To gain a deeper understanding of the site’s significance, many visitors opt for a guided tour. Local guides can provide insight into the history, function, and theory behind the Moray site, explaining how the terraces were likely used for agricultural purposes and their importance within the larger Inca Empire.

5. Accessibility

Moray is easily accessible from Cusco by car or bus. The site is located in the Maras district, near the town of Maras, which is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Cusco. The road to Moray is in good condition, and visitors can reach the site in about an hour’s drive from Cusco.

The site is typically part of Sacred Valley tours that also visit Salinas de Maras, a nearby salt mine that is also a significant archaeological site. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water, as the site is at an altitude of around 3,500 meters (11,500 feet), which can cause altitude sickness for some visitors.

6. Tips for Visiting Moray

• Time of Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit Moray, as the site can become crowded during peak tourist hours. Visiting early also allows for better lighting for photography.
• Altitude: As with other high-altitude sites in the Sacred Valley, visitors should take time to acclimatize to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion.
• Respect the Site: Like all archaeological sites, visitors should treat Moray with respect by not climbing on the terraces or disturbing the stones.

7. Conclusion

The Moray Terraces are a fascinating and unique archaeological site that showcases the advanced agricultural knowledge and engineering of the Inca civilization. The circular terraces, with their sophisticated design and potential use for agricultural experimentation, offer valuable insights into the Inca’s ability to adapt to the diverse environments of the Andes. Whether you are interested in Inca history, agriculture, or simply want to explore a beautiful and tranquil location in the Sacred Valley, Moray is a must-visit destination that highlights the ingenuity of the Inca Empire.