Work

On Inca astronomical instruments: the observatory at Inkaraqay – El Mirador (National Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu, Peru)

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: Th is article is dedicated to a special category of structures that may be called “astronomical instruments”, constructed in the Inca Empire (ca. 14-16 c. AD). As mentioned in some sources, these were intended for use by a small group of priests-astronomers. A good example is Intimachay in Machu Picchu, which was recently re-designated as an astronomical observatory, far more complex and precise than was previously believed. Th e discovery of Inkaraqay – El Mirador, a second structure, even more complicated than Intimachay and erected for the purpose of precise astronomical observation, confi rms the importance of the knowledge of the skies in the running of the Incan Empire.

Source: Estudios Latinoamericanos

DOI: 10.36447/estudios2017.v36-37.art1

Authors: Fernando Astete Victoria, Mariusz Ziółkowski, Jacek Kościuk

Institutions: University of Warsaw, Wrocław University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Historical and Architectural Studies

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W2999499730

FWCI: 6.354

Cites: 3

Cited by: 10

Related to: 10