The+Temple+of+the+Sun

=The Temple of the Sun=

The Temple of the Sun was used for many purposes ranging from a solar observatory to a mausoleum. Due to these different purposes the temple was closed to most of the public. This amazing building was shaped in a semicircle built on Machu Picchu. One of the towers that is considered as part of the temple has a trapezoidal window. Under this window there were many mummies on display to be worshiped by the Incan people. These mummies were placed in royal tombs because they were considered a main part of the sun cult.

One of the purposes that the temple was used for was for solar observations. Near the trapezoidal windows the Incan people would place pottery to equilibrate the sun’s position. The reasons behind the pottery placement was to help properly perform their ancient rituals.

The Temple of the Sun was also used as a sacrafice center. Incan priests would mainly kill animals. When the animal was killed the would remove the lungs and stomach to “read” them. They believed the stomach and lungs would show them the future and help prevent any major disasters. The altar, a large stone, was used as the sacrifice table. Also during the sacrifice, a sacred drink to the Incas called Chicha was passed around.

Another interesting use of the Temple of the Sun was the Mausoleum. This was a cave under the temple. One theory there is to believe about the cave is that it may have held the remaining parts of the Inca Pachacutec. Although many recent archaeological discoveries have created the theory of the cave being used for celebration. The cave would of celebrated Mother Nature for all that she did for the Incan people in the growing season.

The Temple of the Sun was originally used for many different purposes. These purposed included solar observations,sacrifice center, and the Mausoleum. The most popular use was for sacrificial purposes.

By: Elli Duensing