
Ollantaytambo, located in Peru, was a significant Incan administrative, religious, and military hub known for its massive architectural constructions and unique urban planning in the Cusco region. The place traces its origins to the pre-Inca era, with the Tampus initially inhabiting it. They settled on the slopes of Bandolista Hill and formed a small kingdom. In the 15th century, the Inca Pachacutec conquered and rebuilt Ollantaytambo as a new planned city, constructing terraces for various purposes, including irrigation systems. This made it look like temple hills and linked it with the Inca nobility. During the Spanish invasion, the Ollantaytambo Sanctuary was a defensive checkpoint for Manco Inca, the Inca resistance leader against the Spanish. Today, Ollantaytambo is a popular tourist destination. It was considered the most important town during the Inca era and a key site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It also acts as the main gateway to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.