17:34 | Cusco (Cusco region), Nov. 8.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) recognized the Andean Road System Qhapaq Ñan as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
The recognition was awarded on Wednesday after a brief ceremony at Rumiqolqa —an ancient quarry located within the Pikillaqta Archaeological Park in Cusco region.
The act included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque recognizing the historical, technological and civil engineering achievement of
Qhapaq Ñan, the Inka Imperial Road that spread across Argentina, Bolivia, Chile,
Ecuador and Peru, starting at Haukaypata (Cusco's main square).
ASCE's representative Kenneth R. Wright noted Qhapaq Ñan is one of the most notable construction engineering works that have overcome the South American Andes' rough terrain to connect territories and peoples.
"The infrastructure is still used by indigenous peoples," he noted.
The plaque was placed near the impressive gate structures at Rumiqolqa, a construction formed by pyramid-shaped buttresses, adapted to the irrigation and water conduit infrastructure of the pre-Hispanic Pikillaqta people.
The Inca Trail corridor stretching from Rumilqolqa to the Chuspitakana sector belongs to the
Qhapaq Ñan, which has been included in the cultural itinerary category of
UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Decentralized Culture Directorate of Cusco (DDCC) Head Vidal Pino Zambrano thanked the recognition and referred to the intensive research and preservation works currently underway.
(END) PHS/LZD/RMB/MVB
Publicado: 8/11/2017