An early morning as we are on the move today to Puno, Peru. But first, a hearty breakfast of eggs, ham, rolls, fruit and yogurt … and matte de coca. My standard each morning, if possible!
Our first stop is the The Temple of Wiracocha or Raqch’i, as it is known in Quechua, about 60 miles from Cuzco. According to legend, Wiracocha is a mythical being who journeyed to Lake Titicaca more than 5,000 years ago. In western religion, he is known as “God” and as such is omnipresent. He brought the structure of civilization to the Amara people who were living in that area. Even today, we are told, the old Amara language is still spoken, along with Spanish and Quechua. But, back to Wiracocha … he carried a staff and held such power that he could reshape the geography of earth. He rained fire and created volcanic eruptions that changed the landscape. |
The base of the most prominent structure at the Temple of Wiracocha is made out of volcanic stone onto which adobe walls rise over 60-feet. The mythology surrounding Wiracocha also involves the elliptical movement of celestial bodies; the celestial egg-creation of life through the big bang; and the creator of all life on earth. |
Walking around the site, I found red chards of pottery that I was told were Inkan and would have been from vessels brought to the Temple of Wiracocha as offerings. I also found a new kuya for my mesa, one I knew immediately represents the organizing principle of complimentary opposites (yanantin/masintin); right-relationship; balance … my journey.
Jose Luis tells us that all seven saiwas when seen from the perceptual state of Wiracocha are all the same. However, from the place of language (articulation), each saiwa is different. Language brings coherence, and only that.
Continuing on to Puno, we stopped first at a hot springs where “therapuetic mud” pools extract impurities and soften our skin.
Nest, we stopped in the Colonial town of Pukara, northwest of Lake Titicaca for a tasty lunch of roasted lamb served out of a brown paper bag, potatoes, hot sauce and beer. We are told the people here are contemporaries of the Tiwanacan culture, and this town was an important administrative and religious center for the Inca.
Sadly, we didn’t have time to stop at the ancient archeological site here that dates back as early as 1,800BC, and apparently has nine pyramids with stone carvings of mythical beings and animals. So much to see and experience, and so little time … maybe next trip!
Reaching Puno around 7PM, I am exhausted from the more than 6 hour bus trip, plus stops along the way. Quick shower and change of clothes, followed by a lovely dinner at our hotel. Then, a few pages of reading before sleep.