Intihuatana The Sundial In Machu Picchu

The Intiwatana, also known as the “hitching post of the sun,” is a type of sundial found at Machu Picchu, a famous archaeological site in Peru. It consists of a stone pillar or column with a protruding knob at the top, which casts a shadow that aligns with various carved marks on a stone platform. These marks are believed to have been used by the ancient Incas for astronomical and agricultural purposes, such as determining the solstices and equinoxes.

Visiting Hours

Machu Picchu is open every day of the year from 6 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon. However, the Intihuatana can only be visited from 7 in the morning until 10 in the morning. Outside of this schedule, it is not possible to visit it.

Is The SunDial Original?

During the Spanish invasion, much of the sundial was destroyed. Nevertheless, due to the Spanish not reaching Machu Picchu, this particular sundial remains intact. However, in 2000 on an advertisement shoot, a camera accidentally fell and cracked the corner of the stone.

What Was Funtion Of The Sun Dial?

The primary function of Intihuatana was likely to track the movements of the sun and other celestial bodies, such as the moon and stars. The Inca people were skilled astronomers, and they placed great importance on understanding the movements of celestial bodies for religious, agricultural, and administrative purposes.

The precise positioning and orientation of Intihuatana suggest that it was used to determine the solstices and equinoxes, key events in the solar calendar. During these celestial events, the sun aligns perfectly with specific points on the horizon, marking the changing seasons. Intihuatana’s design allowed Inca priests or astronomers to accurately determine these critical dates, which were essential for agricultural planning and religious ceremonies.

Moreover, Intihuatana likely held spiritual significance for the Inca people. It was believed to be a sacred site where the sun was ritually “tied” to the earth, ensuring its continued journey across the sky. Rituals and ceremonies may have been performed at Intihuatana to honor the sun god Inti and to seek his blessings for a bountiful harvest and prosperity.

The importance of Intihuatana goes beyond its practical astronomical function. It reflects the profound connection between the Inca civilization, the natural world, and the cosmos. Its intricate design and precise alignment demonstrate the advanced knowledge and engineering skills of the Inca people, as well as their reverence for the celestial realm. Today, Intihuatana stands as a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilizations.