Intihuatana in Machu Picchu: The Sundial of the Incas – Complete Guide

The Mysterious Intihuatana: The Sacred “Watch” of Machu Picchu

The Intihuatana is one of the most fascinating and best preserved elements of Machu Picchu. This carved stone functioned as a sophisticated astronomical instrument for the Incas. In this guide, we explore its meaning, function and how to visit it in the citadel.

What is the Intihuatana?

• Meaning: “Where the sun is tied” (from Quechua Inti = sun, huatana = to tie).
• Function: Sundial and astronomical calendar
• Location in Machu Picchu: Hanan sector (upper area), near the Temple of the Sun.
• Unique features:
  • Granite stone polished to millimetric precision
  • Angles perfectly aligned with cardinal points
  • Shadow marking the solstices and equinoxes.

Astronomical Function of Intihuatana

Inca Agricultural Calendar

• Marking the seasons for planting and harvesting
• During solstices (21 Jun and 21 Dec), the sun creates particular shadows:
  • Winter Solstice: Longest Shadow
  • Summer Solstice: Shorter Shade

Religious Ceremonies

• Central point for rituals to the god Inti (Sun)
• Inca priests symbolically “tied” the sun so that it would not escape during the winter solstice.

Important Historical Data

• Construction: XV century, during the government of Pachacútec.
• Discovery: It was identified by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
• State of conservation: One of the few Intihuatanas that survived the Spanish destruction.
• Vandalism: In 2000, a filming crane partially damaged it (today it is protected).

How to Visit the Intihuatana in Machu Picchu

Exact Location

• Upper urban sector (Hanan)
• After the Temple of the Sun and before the agricultural sector
• Coordinates: 13°09’48 “S 72°32’44 “W

Recommendations for the Visit

1. Ideal time: 10:00-11:00 am (best light for photos)
2. Access: Included in the general entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
3. Restrictions:
   • No touching (delimited area)
   • Use of tripods prohibited without special permission
4. Recommended guide: Hire an official guide to understand its significance.

Curiosities of the Intihuatana

• Incredible accuracy: Angles have less than 1° of error
• Perfect Alienation: Aim directly to the Astronomical South
• Alternative theories: Some researchers suggest that it also served as a sacrificial altar.
• Special energies: Many visitors report unique sensations when in close proximity to

Other Intihuatanas in Peru

Machu Picchu is not the only place with these structures:

• Pisac: Intihuatana in the Archaeological Park
• OllantaytamboIn the Temple of the Sun
• Huayna Picchu: Small version near the summit

Photographic Tips

• Best angle: From the northeast side with the mountains in the background
• Golden hour: Between 10 am and 2 pm to avoid hard shadows
• Composition: Include Inca stairways as a natural frame.

Why is the Intihuatana of Machu Picchu so special?

1. Best preserved: Shows details impossible to see elsewhere.
2. Privileged location: In the heart of the sacred citadel
3. Scientific accuracy: Demonstrates advanced astronomical knowledge
4. Mystery intact: Still keeping secrets to be discovered