Temple of the Sun

Of all the constructions destined to living quarters, this complex is the finest, the greatest, and the best located of Machu Picchu. One gains access through a double framed door that was closed with a security system whose remains are still visible. The main construction, built of finely polished blocks of stone, was called “the tower.” The tower is built on a great rock under which is a small cave whose walls are entirely covered by a fine work of masonry. We believe that it was a mausoleum and that in the great niches mummies were set to rest. This place was used for ceremonies related to the June solstice.

One of the rooms gives access to a service quarter with a drainage canal. There is also an enclosure for the camelids and a private terrace with views over the town.