Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Inca-Caranqui archaeological site, located near Ibarra, Ecuador, is a significant remnant of the Inca Empire's northernmost expansion. Before the Inca conquest, the area was home to the Caranqui chiefdoms, which featured numerous earthen mounds known as 'tolas,' used for elite residences and ceremonial purposes. The site, situated in a fertile valley, became an important Inca garrison town after their conquest, which was completed between the 1490s and 1520 CE under the leadership of Huayna Capac. Notable features of the site include the remains of a Temple of the Sun, a central plaza, and a large semi-subterranean pool used for rituals. The archaeological remains provide insights into the cultural and ceremonial practices of both the pre-Inca and Inca inhabitants.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Inca-Caranqui
Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Water Management Features
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Ecuador
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in Ecuador

Tumebamba
Ruined Inca city, northern capital, monumental stones.
Pambamarca
Eroded stratovolcano with Inca fortresses.
Pambamarca Fortress Complex
Inca hilltop fortresses in northern Ecuador.

Catequilla
Pre-Columbian astronomical observatory on equator

Cojitambo
Inca and pre-Inca hilltop archaeological site
Cochasquí
Extensive pre-Columbian pyramids and burial mounds