Bales Geneology

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The Temples

Both of the sets of structures here had some reference to water. In the upper set of ruins was the Temple of the Rainbow. In the lower section, and directly overlooking them, was the Temple of the Waterfall.

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Waterfall Temple Framed (11KB)

This is a view from the Temple of the Rainbow (in the upper section) through a window to the Temple of the Waterfall... Leading down between the upper and lower sections (although it's not too clear here) is a set of fifteen ceremonial baths - another indication of the religious significance of this place.

While we were in the Temple of the Rainbow, Mauro was giving us some background on the site and we saw a faint rainbow across the valley against the mountains.

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Here is a view of a portion of the waterfalls through a portal in the Temple of the Waterfall. Part of this temple is a small triangular platform overlooking the waterfalls that is accessible by stepping through a small portal like the one at right. This (Mauro explained) was where offerings were made to the spirit of the waterfall. So, one by one we each stepped out onto the ledge and did so, even if our 'offering' was only a wish. Seeing as how there was quite a drop and the ledge was barely big enough to accommodate my size 12 boots, the combination of height, wind and the view made this a bit of a heady experience. Waterfall through Window (12KB)
View Down (9KB) <<< Pegs to secure the roofing are visible on the walls between the gabled housing...

 

>>> Mauro 'assumes the position' to demonstrate the proper posture in the ceremonial baths...

Mauro in Ceremonial Bath (11KB)

Yellow Flowers in Wall (8KB)

The lower complex of buildings housed 60 - 80 people to tend the year round crops of food and ceremonial plants and most of the housing is similar in construction with gabled roofs and exterior pegs to hold the thatched roofs. (Some of these types of structures with the roofs restored are visible at Machu Picchu.) The upper complex seems to be primarily ceremonial but shares some of the same characteristics in the stonework (windows, niches in the walls, etc.). 

After exploring the site until it was beginning to get dark, we headed back to camp for our 'last supper' and to prepare to finally reach Machu Picchu on Day Four...

 
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Find out more about this and other Mysterious Places...

JB in Window (13KB)

JB in a window of the Temple of the Rainbow...

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Inca Trail

Huinay Huayna