Ollantaytambo and Yucay
We went to the ruins at Ollantaytambo, another pre-Incan site and the first of the many, many sets of steps that we would climb. | The steps were not that steep, but the the high altitude (around 10,000 feet), made it a challenge for everyone. |
Along the way we stopped to marvel at the technique for creating farmland out of mountains and for moving from one level to another. | There were also storehouses
built into the hillside--no space was wasted. |
When we reached the top, we stopped to admire our accomplishment. . . | and to admire the magnificent
views. |
On the bus on the way back, a young man performed traditional music for us. | We stopped to visit a potter just outside of the town of Yucay. |
His workshop specialized in producing pottery that utilizes the old pre-Incan motifs and designs while not being copies of earlier works. | |
We spent some time admiring the variety of shapes and designs | and then were happy to see the peaceful hotel. |