Objective:

This article offers a reflection on the construction of early visual narratives of the archaeological monumental heritage by literate circles of Cuzco at the turn of the 20 century (1897-1910).

Methodology:

Through a research work that included access to a wide range of archives -from press to bibliographic and iconographic sources- it explores the importance of the production and consumption of photographic images for literate elites, both in Cusco and in the rest of the country.

Originality:

It rebuilds the positioning of a reading of identity affirmation based on the promotion of its monumental heritage, especially pre-Hispanic, in a little explored period: the two decades prior to the scientific discovery and media positioning of Machu Picchu (1911-1913), by far the epicenter of the Peruvian heritage discourse throughout the 20 century.

Conclusions:

This work reveals the way in which early registration and exhibition of certain Inca architectural sites presented in Cuzco and its surroundings, were key in the shaping of an emerging heritage discourse that, through a series of photographic and printed formats, projected itself towards several national and foreign audiences.