Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo served as a fortress and religious center between Cusco and Machu Picchu.  At the top of the massive stairs are walls composed of carved red granite.  Several of the larger blocks represent somewhat of a mystery since the stone did not come from anywhere near the site.  The fortress itself was used to direct a battle against Pizarro and his conquistadors; the Incan warriors were even able to (temporarily) drive the invaders back to Cusco.

The village at the base of the fortress is probably the best preserved of the Inca settlements, with original walls still standing and water running through the original channels dating to the 15th century.