Ransom Room: Cajamarca's Inca Prison

The Ransom Room, or Cuarto del Rescate, is the only Inca structure still standing in Cajamarca. It sits 140 meters southeast of the Plaza de Armas at Jr. Amalia Puga 750, and entry costs just S/5 (about $1.40) for adults. This small stone chamber is where Atahualpa, the last Inca emperor, was held prisoner after his capture by Francisco Pizarro on November 16, 1532. He offered to fill the room with gold and twice with silver to buy his freedom. The ransom was paid, but Atahualpa was executed anyway. Today, a red line on the wall marks the height he promised to reach.

Visiting the Ransom Room

The room measures roughly 11 meters long by 7 meters wide. Its walls lean slightly inward, and the trapezoidal doorways and niches are classic Inca workmanship. You cannot enter the room itself, but you can look inside from the entrance and see the red line near the ceiling. The visit takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how long you linger. Most travelers pair it with the nearby Belén Monumental Complex and the Archaeological Museum, as the same ticket often covers all three.

Opening Hours and Tickets

Hours are 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, daily except Monday. Some sources list a 2:30 pm opening, so it's wise to confirm locally. Adult admission is S/5; students and children pay S/2. A guided tour costs S/15–25 extra and adds context about the conquest. Fees are subject to change, so check the official site for current rates. I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds — by 11 am, tour groups start arriving.

Getting There

From the Plaza de Armas, walk southeast on Jr. Amalia Puga for about two minutes. The building is unassuming, with a small sign; look for the stone doorway. Cajamarca's airport (CJA) is 3.4 km from the center, and taxis take 10–15 minutes. Local buses drop you within a few blocks. If you're coming from the bus terminal, a taxi costs around S/5–7.

History and What You'll See

Atahualpa was captured in the Plaza de Armas during the Battle of Cajamarca. He offered the ransom to Pizarro: fill the room once with gold and twice with silver. The treasure poured in from across the empire, but the Spanish executed him on August 29, 1533, fearing an Inca uprising. The room survived because it was used as a chapel and later a prison. Historians debate whether this was the actual ransom room or simply Atahualpa's cell — many believe the ransom was collected elsewhere. But the red line and the trapezoidal niches make it the most tangible link to that moment.

Architectural Details

The room's walls are made of finely cut andesite stone. The trapezoidal niches (four of them) were likely used for offerings. The doorway is also trapezoidal, a hallmark of Inca design. The red line is a modern addition, painted to show the height Atahualpa promised — about 2.5 meters from the floor. You can photograph from outside; flash is not allowed inside. No food or drinks are permitted.

Practical Tips

Bring your student ID for the S/2 rate. There are no toilets on site; use the ones at the Plaza de Armas. The site is not wheelchair accessible due to narrow doorways and uneven floors. Combine your visit with the Belén complex, which has a beautiful baroque church and a museum with pre-Hispanic artifacts. Allow 2–3 hours for all three sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ransom Room open on Sundays?

Yes, it is open Sundays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. It is closed on Mondays. Some sources list different afternoon hours, so check locally.

How much does it cost to enter?

Adult admission is S/5. Students and children pay S/2. A guided tour costs an additional S/15–25. The ticket may also cover the Belén complex and Archaeological Museum.

How long should I spend there?

Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes. The room is small, but reading the information panels and taking photos takes time. If you hire a guide, allow an extra 20 minutes.

Can I take photos inside?

Yes, but flash photography is not allowed. You can take pictures from the entrance; you cannot walk inside the room.

What is the best time to visit?

The dry season from May to September offers sunny days and cool nights. Visit early in the morning (9–10 am) to avoid crowds. The room is small and can feel cramped when tour groups arrive.