Fortress in the Clouds

Kuelap is an ancient fortress located in the northern Andes of Peru. It was built by the Chachapoya people between the 6th and 16th centuries. The fortress is situated on a mountaintop and surrounded by towering walls, making it almost impenetrable. Inside, there are over 400 circular stone houses, as well as public buildings and temples. The Chachapoya were known for their architectural prowess, and Kuelap is a prime example of their engineering ingenuity. The cloud forest surrounding the fortress is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. I found it fascinating to compare this site with Machu Picchu, which was built by a completely different culture with different priorities.