If you are planning to visit the ancient Inca ruins in Peru, you have probably heard of the incredible temples at Machu Pichu. These wonders include the Sun and Moon Temples, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Condor Temple. But what is their story and why do they have such an iconic status? Read on to learn more about them! The Incas were the most accomplished stonemasons in history. They perfected the ashlar style of building, which requires stones to be cut or broken to fit tightly without mortar. And because Peru is on a massive fault line, the buildings at Machu Pichu would not have survived the many years of quakes if not for the Incas. That’s why most of the wall layers are offset to fit tightly together.
Temple of the Moon
The Temple of the Moon is an Inca construction located in a cave. It is believed that the moon goddess was worshiped here, so the name of the structure was derived from this. This stone carving is in the shape of a semicircular moon. Other animal carvings can also be seen in the temple. The temple is open to the public, but it is recommended to tour it during the day, when there are less tourists.
The Temple of the Moon is the second most visited site in Machu Picchu, after the main Sanctuary. It is a sacred site that is off the beaten path. You can only reach this temple by purchasing a ticket for Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. A small path will take you to the top, where you can see two notices, one of which will lead you to the Great Cavern.
Temple of the Sun
The Temple of the Sun is one of the most well-known Inca structures in the world. Located in the religious center, this stone is believed to be an astronomical observatory. Its circular pillar is oriented in a specific direction to track the sun’s movement during equinoxes. The temple is also the site of many a religious ceremony. Legends about the Inca’s building and construction date back thousands of years.
The Sun was the most important god to the Incas. They called him Inti, and he ruled life throughout the empire. His wife, the moon Killa, was the Inca emperor, and his son, the Sacred Mountain, was a monument in his honor. The temple itself was built on a natural cave, and was a massive construction dedicated to the sun god Inti.
Room of the Three Windows
There are many theories about the origin of the legendary Temple of the Three Windows in Machu, Peru. According to legend, the Incas built the site by concealing themselves in three caves south of Cusco, the “Ayar Brothers.” While the Incas did not have books, the stone remains tell their history. The three windows in the Temple of the Three Windows symbolize the three worlds: the current world, the land of the dead and the world of the gods.
Historically, this area was a center for important Inca religious ceremonies. Legends of the Incas point to the fact that the location of the Temple of the Three Windows was important to their religious practice. The Inkas placed a great deal of importance on the position of the sun, and their temple of the three windows was no different. However, the Incas did not record their stories, so they were passed down through generations.
Temple of the Condor
The impressive Temple of the Condor at Machu Picchu is a truly remarkable sight. Its name comes from a stone carved in the shape of a condor’s head and wings. While the stone’s shape is uncertain, some researchers believe it was used as an altar or sacrifice place. Interestingly, a mummy was discovered under the “beak” of the bird, which may have served as a shrine to an Inca deity.
The temple floor has been carved in the shape of a condor’s head, with feathers on its neck. It also contains a mummy, which was buried there before it was discovered. Behind the temple is an underground maze of dungeons. In ancient times, accused citizens were imprisoned for three days and killed for crimes like laziness or theft.
Sacred rock
The legendary city of Machu Picchu, Peru, is the site of many Inca mysteries. Despite being nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, it eludes the eye of modern visitors. Despite its size, Machu Picchu features over two hundred structures built of exquisitely carved stone. The ruins surround a one-acre green space, fed by open waterways. Despite its mysterious origins, the mystery of Machu Picchu has inspired new research and interpretations.
One of the mysteries of the sacred rock is how it was used. The ancient Incas used the rock for burials. A sacrificial altar is built inside the rock, while a mummy lies in the cave. This mummy remains unexplained today, but its importance in the Inca culture is still being investigated. Legends about Machu Picchu’s construction have confused archeologists and prompted them to create a new museum in the area.
Temple of the Moon cave
Located 390 meters below the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Temple of the Moon is a complex of stone structures that date back around 1500 years. Though it was not discovered until 1936, it was believed that it was a temple dedicated to the gods. However, the actual purpose of this cave is unknown. However, the legend that accompanies the site suggests that it was once used as a burial site and a ceremonial bathing complex.
Several archaeological digs and studies have found evidence that the Incas were religious, performing rituals and sacrifices to maintain their relationships with the supernatural forces. There are a number of religious structures at Machu Picchu that suggest that the Incas were heavily involved in these functions. The sacred structures at Machu Picchu are also a testament to Pachacuti’s right to rule.
