Sacsaywaman

Some remember the name of this epic place by referring to it as 'Sexy Woman!' The pronunciation isn't terribly far off , and it helps me to remember the real name.  

Located on a hill above Cusco, which is already high, Sacsaywaman was  a fortress and spiritual center. Constructed of huge, shaped stones, fitted together snugly without mortar, it is truly an epic site!

The largest stone weighs 200 tons! Yes, two hundred tons!

Here it is behind Claire, me, and Bernadene! See how beautifully the stones are fitted? Some have notches and extensions to maneuver them into place.

Notice here how the huge wall zigzags behind me; this formation reduces or neutralizes movement caused by seismic activity. Evidence that it works? The wall is still standing!

This adjacent hill has a vortex on the top. I couldn't make the climb because, by then, my knees were trashed. Claire and Bernadene made it though, and told me about it. Notice the zigzag wall again.

As you can see here, there are other levels higher up the hillside.

I didn't tire of taking pictures; there's a quilt or two lurking in here!

I like the variety of huge and smaller stones plus the interesting angles.

I am now safely home, resting my poor legs, especially my knees. But I met my climbing goals with a lot of help from my friends, especially Bernadene, who refused to let me fail. Because of her, I succeeded! I'm proud I did it and am grateful for a generous friend! Muchas gracias, Bernadene!