Plazas, "Ushnus", and Ritual Experiences in the North Calchaquí Valley during Inka Occupation

Abstract

This paper discusses how the Inkas used the architecture and the surrounding topography of their settlements to manipulate peoples` somatic experiences during public ceremonial events. Therefore, we discuss the material and spatial arrangements of four Inka settlements located in the North Calchaquí Valley (Salta Province, Argentina); two high altitude settlements located in the Nevados de Cachi area and two sites located in the northern and southern areas of this portion of the valley. We will focus on the movements and views encouraged by the location and spatial configuration of certain buildings and traits within these sites. We will emphasize the visual and physical accessibility of congregation spaces, the sights offered by their architecture and layout design, and the presence of other devices intimately related with Andean ceremonialism such as platforms, channels, wank’as, and monoliths. We will argue that the Inkas not only sought to clearly differentiate themselves from the locals, but also to make clear their distinctive proficiency and privileged position to communicate with certain non-human entities of the Andean landscape.