Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel built around 1450 A.D. under the command of Emperor Pachacútec, was constructed in an imposing natural environment with a multifunctional purpose: to serve as a political, administrative, and spiritual center, especially oriented towards the Antisuyo region, that is, the Amazonian area. Throughout the enclosure, there are imposing stone structures that still amaze thousands of visitors today with their architecture, symbolism, and construction perfection.
Below, learn about the 8 most representative buildings in Machu Picchu and what makes them so special.
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1. The Temple of the Sun
This building, semicircular in shape—unique of its kind in all of Machu Picchu—was the main ceremonial center dedicated to the god Inti, the sun, the supreme deity of the Incas. It is built with finely carved stones and contains strategically located niches and windows, designed for the sun’s rays to enter on important astronomical dates, such as the solstices.
This temple, located next to the Inca’s House, shows signs of having been burned during the Spanish invasion. Currently, it is not allowed to enter its interior, but it can be seen from various angles on the tourist circuits.
Location: Sacred sector, next to the Inca’s House
Access: Circuits 1, 2, 3, or 4
2. The Intihuatana
Known as “the place where the sun is tied,” this monolith carved directly onto a natural rock functioned as a solar calendar and astronomical observatory. Inca priests used its shadow to determine key dates in the agricultural calendar.
Its polygonal shape, divided into three levels, reveals the deep astronomical and symbolic knowledge of the Incas. Many claim that being near the Intihuatana transmits a very powerful spiritual energy.
Location: High area of the religious sector
Access: Only with Circuit 2 – From 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
3. The Temple of the Condor
One of the most fascinating structures due to its architectural creativity. This rock formation simulates the silhouette of an Andean condor, a sacred bird for the Incas, by visually combining a carved rock with outstretched wings and another in the shape of a head and beak. The condor represented the link between the earthly and spiritual worlds.
The lower enclosure, where the “head” is located, appears to have functioned as a cell or punishment area, which adds even more mystery to this temple.
Location: Urban sector, lower area
Access: Circuits 2 and 4 – From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
4. The Main Temple
This large rectangular structure was a high-ranking ritual center, possibly intended for important religious ceremonies. Its walls are made with enormous, perfectly assembled stone blocks, demonstrating the mastery of Inca engineering.
The temple is located in the Sacred Plaza, next to the Temple of the Three Windows. Although it shows structural damage, it still retains its imposing presence and mysticism.
Location: Center of the ceremonial sector
Access: Circuits 1 or 2 – From 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
5. The Temple of the Three Windows
One of the most photographed icons of Machu Picchu. This enclosure stands out for three trapezoidal windows that are believed to represent the three worlds in the Inca worldview: the celestial (hanan pacha), the earthly (kay pacha), and the underworld (ukhu pacha).
Its precise carving and the use of monumental stones reflect the mastery of the Inca builders. On both sides of the temple, there are niches where offerings were possibly placed.
Location: Sacred Plaza
Access: Circuits 1 or 2 – From 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
6. The Sacred Rock
This gigantic monolith, approximately 7 meters (about 23 feet) high, is oriented towards the Yanantin mountain. Its triangular shape evokes a mountain, a sacred symbol for the Incas. Rituals and offerings were performed at the foot of this rock.
Many visitors believe that approaching their hands to it allows them to feel a special energy. Some even leave coca leaves as a sign of respect, as part of ancestral tradition.
Location: Northern part of Machu Picchu, near the access to Huayna Picchu
Access: Circuits 1, 2, or 4 – All day
7. The Water Mirrors
These two circular basins carved into the ground were used to observe reflections of the sky. It is believed that they served both for astronomical observations and for rituals of veneration of the stars.
Their location, near the Temple of the Condor, suggests that they were part of the area’s spiritual complex. Although they are protected by ropes, it is possible to appreciate them from a safe distance.
Location: Lower part of the urban sector
Access: Circuits 2 or 4 – From 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
8. El Intipunku (The Sun Gate)
Formerly, this structure served as the main entrance to Machu Picchu for those arriving from the Inca Trail. Its name means “Sun Gate” and it is located high on a mountain southeast of the archaeological site.
From there, you have one of the most impressive views of Machu Picchu, especially at sunrise. Currently, Intipunku can only be accessed by doing the Inca Trail, in its 2 or 4-day version.
Location: Highest part of Machu Picchu, southeast
Access: Only with the Inca Trail (2 or 4-day tour)