Confirmed existence of astronomical observatories in Machu Picchu
Decentralized Culture Directorate of Cusco released the results of different studies that confirm the existence of astronomical observatories in different parts of the National Park of Machu Picchu. National and foreign specialists conducted important research in the astronomical observatories of Intimachay and Inkaraqay.
Fernando Astete, head of Inca archaeological park, said specialists investigated in the field of Intimachay, astronomical observatory located on the back and bottom of the “Hall of Mirrors” llaqta of Machu Picchu, where they found an Inca structure comprised of a front and side window.
It was proved that the observatory was a sacred place that determined accurately celestial phenomena, such as summer and winter solstices or the movements of the moon.
Other studies were conducted in the observatory Inkaraqay, area located northeast of the mountain Waynapicchu, which has a double jamb cover and two trapezoidal niches in the back of the wall.
Each of them has a hole of 5 inches in diameter, that according to the scanning work, were astronomical observation points. They match with the characteristics described in chronics of Sarmiento de Gamboa in 1572.
Scientific investigations were possible thanks to the Peruvian-Polish project, which allowed archaeoastronomical exploration work using last generation equipment, such as, 3D scanning and special software that allowed to locate the exact position of the stars in Inca times and contrast with the position of the monuments today.
