Sun Temple in Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu Sun Temple
Built on a natural rock, the Sun Temple is a semi-circular tower-like structure with the original Inca stone masonry. Although there is some resemblance to the Sun Temple at Qorikancha in Cuzco, the temple in Machu Picchu is a lot smaller. Just like in Qorikancha, there are trapezoidal windows and niches in the Machu Picchu temple.
Under one of the windows of this temple, there is a rock on which the sun rays fall. The Inca used this feature to measure the movement of the sun by tracking the sun rays that fall on the rock. Some experts believe that this rock served as an altar for performing sacrifices during the summer and winter equinoxes, and many important religious ceremonies.
Related Images
Sacred Inti Watana StoneRoyal Tomb
Principal Temple on the Sacred Plaza
Central Plaza
Residential quarters
Agricultural terraces
A view of Machu Picchu
Huayna Picchu
Related Pages
Machu Picchu, Inca Civilization, Ancient Cultures of Peru, Cusco, Lima, Peru
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