Urcos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Urcos
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Town
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Plaza and market
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 Urcos
Location in Peru
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| Country |  Peru |
| Region | Cusco |
| Province | Quispicanchi |
| District | Urcos |
| Area | |
| • Total | 134.65 km2 (51.99 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 3,150 m (10,330 ft) |
| Population
(2017)
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| • Total | 10,614 |
| • Density | 78.827/km2 (204.160/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (PET) |
Urcos is a small, interesting town located in the eastern part of Peru. It serves as the capital of the Quispicanchi Province, which is part of the Cusco Region. Urcos is known for its beautiful small lake and some ancient ruins that tell stories of the past. About 10,614 people live here, making it a lively community.
Contents
Discover Urcos: Location and Features
Urcos is nestled high in the Andes mountains, at an elevation of about 3,150 meters (10,335 feet) above sea level. This makes for cool weather and stunning mountain views. The town is a central point for the surrounding rural areas. It has a local government led by a mayor, currently Manuel Jesús Sutta Pfocco.
The Lake of Urcos
One of Urcos's most notable features is its small, peaceful lake. This lake is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It adds to the natural beauty of the town and provides a calm place to relax.
Ancient Ruins and History
Urcos is also home to some fascinating ancient ruins. These ruins are remnants of the Inca Empire, a powerful civilization that existed in South America long ago. They offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
A Glimpse into Inca History
Urcos holds a special place in Inca history. It is said that in the 15th century, a powerful Inca ruler named Hatun Tupaq Inca had important visions in Urcos. These visions were believed to be from Viracocha, the Inca creator deity. After these experiences, Hatun Tupaq Inca took on the name Viracocha Inca. He kept this name for the rest of his time as ruler. This story shows how important Urcos was to the spiritual beliefs of the Inca people.
Exploring Urcos Today
Today, Urcos is a bustling town with a vibrant local market. People from nearby areas come to the market to buy and sell goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture and see daily life in the Peruvian Andes. The town's combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and local life makes it a unique place to visit.
See also
In Spanish: Urcos para niños
