Blessing of Inti
Ollantaytambo, Peru
This photo was taken from one of the Inca storehouses overlooking the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, which is a common starting point for hiking the Inca Trail in Peru. It was no mean feat climbing up the steep track, especially when unacclimatized to the altitude of almost 3000 metres!
The Sun God, Inti, was one of the main deities worshipped by the Incas and they planned construction of their towns and villages according to the orientation of the Sun. The fading sunset in this photo is cast over the Temple of the Sun which sits atop the terraces carved into the face of the surrounding cliffs. The agricultural fields receive the last of the golden light, representing a blessing from above for bountiful harvests.
Ten minutes later, dense clouds rolled over and we were chased down the hill by torrential rain.
