The “Tambo de Zapahuira”, located 20km away from the international route to Bolivia, dates back to the 16th century. It was constructed in the process of southward expansion of the Inca empire. The archaeological complex consist of several stone rooms that are connected through small doors and covered with saddle roofs. Not far away one can find two towers made out of adobe which were used for funerals, as well as round and rectangular farm buildings. The ruins were declared National Monument in 1983 as they represent the Inca architecture.
The Aymara community always considered the place part of the route for shepherds and drovers, which is why the maintenance was taken care of through community work. In addition to the material heritage, there is therefor also immaterial cultural heritage related to the use and maintenance based on pre-Inca traditions. In the 80’s, part of the Tambo was restored. A visit to the Tambo de Zapahuira supports the local communities in charge of the place and enables its further protection.