When we think about ancient Peru, we often picture the impressive Inca Empire. However, there’s another incredible civilization that played a significant role in history—the Chankas. This brave group of Andes warriors had a strong desire to conquer, fighting boldly, nearly changing South American history.
Their story bursts courage, resilience, and determination to stand up to the mightiest empire of their time. Let’s take a closer look at the rise and fall of the Chankas, their rich culture, and how their legacy still resonates in the Andes today.
Who were the Chankas?
The Chankas were a remarkable civilization that thrived from the 10th to 15th centuries in what are now the regions of Apurímac, Ayacucho, and Huancavelica. Living in the beautiful Andean highlands, they showed great strength, skill, and a strong desire to grow their territory.
The Chankas were split into two sections: the Hanan (upper) and the Hurin (lower). Interestingly, the Chankas believe they came from the two beautiful lagoons of Choclococha and Urcocococha. They grew potatoes, maize, and quinoa on terraces they built into the hills.
Llamas and alpacas were their loyal companions, providing wool, meat, and transportation. Besides being talented farmers and builders, the Chankas were also known for their fierce warriors. The Chankas were a warrior people, and after conquering Andahuaylillas, their new target was Cusco.
Social Structure
The Chanka were organized into a federation of tribes, each led by a local chief, and worshipped a war god named Wari, who they believed gave them the strength to conquer their enemies. And conquer they did! For years, the Chanka expanded their territory, striking fear into the hearts of their neighbors.
But their biggest challenge lay ahead: the rising power of the Inca Empire. The Chanka had distinguished by a robust and adaptable social organization, capable of facing ecological and climatic challenges. This adaptability not only reflects their resilience but also their deep understanding of the Andean environment.
Thanks to that, the Chankas thrived during a period of constant change. During the Late Intermediate Period (approximately 1000-1400 AD), the Chankas underwent a process of political and territorial consolidation, establishing a complex society characterized by its military organization.
They also start to mobilize resources and labor on a large scale. The construction of administrative and ceremonial centers, as well as the creation of vast networks of agricultural terraces, reflect a high degree of social and technological organization.
Conflicts with the Incas
The Chanka’s history is intrinsically linked to their rivalry with the Incas. During the reign of Inca Wiracocha, in the early 15th century, the Incas were still growing, and their capital was not yet the grand city we recognize today. So, the Chankas saw this as a chance to make their move.
According to the story, the Chankas gathered an impressive army of 40,000 warriors. They carried stone idols of their gods, symbolizing their strength, as they marched confidently toward Cusco, the Inca Empire capital. The Incas were taken by surprise and considered leaving their city.
However, one young prince, Cusi Yupanqui, was determined to fight. Cusi, who later became known as Pachacutec, the greatest leader of the Inca Empire, stepped up to defend his people. He set up a small but brave army and got ready for a tough battle.
Battle Outcome
The fight that followed was remarkable: The Chankas fought bravely, and, according to the story, the Incas could lose. Then, according to Inca legends, something extraordinary happened: the stones on the battlefield came to life and became soldiers who fought alongside the Incas.
Whether this was a miracle or a clever story, it captured the imagination of many. Against all odds, the Incas succeeded in defeating the Chankas, protecting Cusco, and paving the way for their rise as the leading power in the Andes.
This conflict culminated in a series of battles that tested the strength of the emerging Inca Empire. Although the Incas, under the leadership of Pachacuti, achieved a decisive victory, the Chanca resistance marked a turning point in the consolidation of the empire, forcing the Incas to restructure their military and administrative strategies.
After this battle, the Chanka gathered in their town to regroup and prepare for another attempt against the Incas. The area became known as “Yawar Pampa” (Plain of Blood) because of the tragic loss of life and the suffering that took place. The Incas celebrated their victory and pursued the Chanka to the Apurímac River.
Anco Huallo’s Importance
After the Chanka’s defeat, Pachacutec celebrated his victory in Cusco. He displayed the fallen enemies and brought thousands of prisoners, whom he later integrated into his army. This move aimed to prepare for future conquests and expand his territories.
Among the prisoners was Anco Huallo, who Pachacutec entrusted with leading 6,000 captive Chankas. Alongside the Inca’s brother, Cápac Yupanqui, Anco set out to conquer the northern kingdoms of Chinchaysuyo.
On their journey, they passed through Vilcashuamán, where they reorganized the region and finished building a Sun Temple. They bravely faced other enemies that used to live around them. Chanka’s combat skills impressed their Inca companions but raised concerns for Pachacutec about a possible Chanka revival.
Firmly decided to act, Pachacutec secretly sent a message to his son, Cápac Yupanqui, instructing him to place the Chankas on the front lines during battles. He hoped this would weaken them, however, Cápac Yupanqui’s wife, who was Anco Huallo’s sister, overheard the plan and quickly informed her brother.
Anco Huallo Resistance Aftermath
Calmly, Anco Huallo rallied his soldiers and devised an escape plan. Upon discovering the escape, Cápac Yupanqui was furious but couldn’t catch them. In Huaylas village, the fugitives gathered supplies and swiftly continued to the Callejón de Conchucos.
They crossed the mountains toward Hanamayllo and Ruparupa, now Lamas and Saposoa, where they found refuge in the jungle. Unable to defeat Anco Huallo, the Inca generals turned to conquer another region and come back to Cusco in victory.
Yet, Pachacutec still felt resentment and ordered the execution of his generals, starting with his brother, Cápac Yupanqui. He sought revenge against the Chanka people for the humiliation he had faced. Pachacutec tasked another general, Sinchi Roca, with eliminating any remaining Chanka resistance in Andahuaylas.
After several skirmishes, the final battle occurred in the highlands of Andahuaylas. In a dream, Pachacutec received a message from the Sun god Inti promising victory and provided three golden rods and a magical sling with three crystalline stones that would ensure the Chankas’ defeat.
The Final Battle
In the early morning, the Inca armies withdrew from battle, leading the Chankas to believe they were retreating out of exhaustion. Eager to chase them down, the Chankas rushed forward, unaware that many Inca battalions were hidden in the mountains. They were caught by surprise, leading to their ultimate defeat.
After their defeat, Pachacutec ordered thousands of leaders to move to the Chanka lands. This included the Chachapoyas, Collas, and Guaylas. Meanwhile, the Incas dispersed Chankas throughout the Inca Empire, settling in places like Copacabana, Huanta, Huancavelica, and Quispicanchi.
Visiting Chanka Land: A Journey into the Past
Sóndor Archaeological Complex
This site shows their building skills and their connection to the world, and you can see it in the arrangement of the buildings. In Sóndor, you can sense the Chanka presence. Each stone and structure share their stories that reveal rituals, defense tactics, and worldview.
Visiting this site, where time seems to stand still, is special. It is for anyone wanting to connect with the Andes’ history. Pacucha Glamping, nearby, offers a unique chance to explore the Chanka culture and the beauty of the landscape.
The Chankas and Pacucha Lagoon
Pacucha Lagoon is a calm lake that mirrors the Andean mountains and blue skies and also carries the history of the Chankas. This warrior group, known for resisting the Incas, used the lagoon for farming and ceremonies.
Chankas saw it as a sacred place, connecting the physical and spiritual worlds. Today, Pacucha Lagoon continues to remind us of the rich history and culture that once thrived on its shores.
Why the Chankas Matter Today
The Chankas’ story isn’t just about battles and lost empires, it’s a reminder of the incredible diversity of Peru’s history. Long before the Incas ruled, countless civilizations shaped the Andes with their own unique cultures, beliefs, and achievements.
For travelers, learning about the Chankas adds a new layer to exploring Peru. While Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are incredible, they’re just one chapter of a much larger story. The Chankas’ courage and determination are just as important, showing that history is full of twists, turns, and unsung heroes.
Stay tuned to our blog to learn more about other fascinating stories in Peru. If you want to explore the land where the Chankas once thrived, Viagens Machu Picchu can help you with that. We’re specialists in Peru and all its destinations.
Feel free to contact us so our consultants will give you details about our packages, and deals. Peru, the land of the Chankas and the Incas is waiting for you to discover!
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