The stone of the 12 Angles, an example of great Inca ingenuity
06/06/2024
an example of great Inca ingenuity
The Inca Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America and its administrative, political and military center was located in Cusco, Peru, where many remains of the empire can still be found. The Incas are prized for their architecture and masonry and many of their structures have stood the test of time and remain strong today.
The Incas are widely known for their architectural works, which feature stones carved into very precise shapes and assembled without mortar.
The most famous example is the famous “stone of 12 angles”, located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street in the historic center of Cusco, where the Palace of the archbishop, the current owner of the stone, is located. On March 8, 2014, the stone was vandalized and the block could not be completely cleaned.
Admired for its perfect assembly, it is said that not even a sheet of paper can be inserted between the joints of the stones. Cusco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and the city is a very popular destination for those who wish to learn more about the Inca Empire. The 12 Angle Stone is a major tourist destination, so be prepared for large crowds and selfie-taking tourists.
Finally, while the photo that opens the entry is a close-up of the stone with the angle marks, it at the same time allows you to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship involved. Now let's compare the scale of the stone to a person so you can really appreciate the size of this incredible example of the mastery they had of the art of masonry of the Incas.
NEW LINES IN NAZCA WERE FOUND
THE INCA PEOPLE OF PERU
HISTORY OF CUSCO SQUARE AND SACSAYHUAMAN