Llactapata Photo | TrekEarth

Photographer’s Note

the first ruins you come across on the classic Inca Trail trek. Apparently agricultural in nature. One theory is that the curvy bits (and yes, I'm sure that's the technical term :)) are used to mitigate the effect of flooding by slowing down the river as it comes past. Each time it hits a "curvy bit" it is directed out away from the site.

I did wonder if that would just make the water more turbulent, but what do I know. Pretty impressive, too, from where we stood. Unfortuneately we were unable to take the time to have a closer look, and I'm not sure that it is possible anyway.

This was also quite early in the trek, long before my knee collapsed and my fitness said "hang on, I don't exist".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Llactapata

ribeiroantonio, roges, pauloog has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

ribeiroantonio (21739) 2009-05-15 18:52

What a magnificent view. It is really very impressive. What I like is the way the curvy part on bottom follows the water line up the hill slope. The light is superb and the bit of sky added a great sense of depth. Well done.
Antonio

maglex (1536) 2009-05-15 21:12

Hi Adam, very effective POV showing the dimension of the place and the morphology. The terrace structure may also have been used to control erosion. Thanks for sharing...Alex

roges (1204) 2009-05-15 22:27

Hi Adam !

A very interesting picture.
With a great contrast of colors.
The description offered is exceptional.
Have a nice weekend,
Adrian

pauloog (6278) 2009-05-16 1:33

Hello Adam,
A most interesting view also thanks to your note, brought in dark natural colours.
regards,
Paul