Monuments of the Incas

The stone monuments of the Incas, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes, are among the most magnificent structures in the world. Originally published in 1982, Monuments of the Incas is the most comprehensive photographic and narrative study of the major sites of the Inca empire, including the famed city of Machu Picchu, the Inca town and sun temple of Ollantaytambo, the mighty temple-fortress of Sacsahuaman, and the steeply terraced ruins of Pisac.

This classic book, long out of print, has now been rewritten to incorporate results from the latest archaeological excavations, discoveries about Inca masonry techniques, and updated interpretations of form and function. There are new chapters about Choquequirau, Vitcos, Chinchero, and the ruins along the famous Inca Trail.

Edward Ranney’s photographs convey the extraordinary accomplishments of the Inca masons—from sheer terrace walls and stairways to striking temple buildings and sculpted rock shrines—and the grandeur of their cities. John Hemming makes brilliant use of archaeological and documentary evidence to write a compelling account of each site and to offer insights and speculations on the enigmatic ruins.