Andean Inca 2

Summary

The script delves into the remarkable Inca stonemasonry, showcasing the 12-sided stone's precision fit without mortar. It highlights the Inca's deep connection with stone, their belief in lithification, and the architectural marvels like Machu Picchu. The script describes how the Incas used stonework to demonstrate power and control over nature, with examples of terraces, windows aligned for celestial viewing, and the Inti Juanta stone used in solstice ceremonies. It also touches on the rediscovery of Machu Picchu and its significance as a retreat for the Inca elite.

Takeaways

• 🏰 The Inca's 12-sided stone construction technique allowed them to create massive walls without the need for reinforcement or mortar.
• 🔍 The precision of Inca stonework is such that not even a credit card can be inserted between the stones in their walls.
• 🌱 The Inca had a deep connection with stone, believing in the concept of lithification, where stone could come alive and humans could be turned into stone.
• 🏛️ The Spanish conquest led to the construction of churches on top of pre-existing Andean indigenous structures, including exquisite stone houses.
• 🌾 One such house, known as the 'Golden House,' was found filled with life-size golden corn sculptures and similar silver ones, showcasing Inca wealth.
• 🗺️ Machu Picchu, a well-known Inca site, is a three-day walk from Cusco and served as a vacation spot for the Andean elite.
• 🐪 The Inca did not use wheels or ride llamas; instead, they carried their belongings or were carried on a litter by others.
• 🌳 Machu Picchu's location and design follow the natural topography, providing both a luxurious retreat and a strategic defensive position.
• 🗿 The Inti Juanta stone at Machu Picchu was used in ceremonies to symbolically 'lasso' the sun, connecting earth and sky.
• 🌌 The Inca's observatory at Machu Picchu, with its unique windows and cleft room, was designed for celestial observation and aligning with the sun during solstices.

Q & A

What is unique about the Inca's 12-sided stone construction technique?

The Inca's 12-sided stone construction technique is unique because it creates enormous walls that do not require any reinforcement or mortar. The stones are so precisely fitted that a credit card cannot slide between the joins.

What does the concept of lithification mean in the context of Inca culture?

In the context of Inca culture, lithification refers to the belief that stones could come alive and that humans could be turned into stone. This concept was fundamental to the Inca worldview and is evident in their stonework.

How did the Inca demonstrate their power through architecture?

The Inca demonstrated their power through architecture by sculpting nature, terracing, and modifying natural stone outcroppings. They created structures that showed an altered connectedness with stone and showcased their ability to control their environment.

What is the significance of the 'Golden House' mentioned in the script?

The 'Golden House' is one of the exquisite stone houses built by the Inca. It was found filled with life-size golden corn sculptures made from actual gold, and similar sculptures in silver, showcasing the wealth and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.

Why is Machu Picchu so well-preserved?

Machu Picchu is well-preserved because it was overgrown and forgotten after the fall of the Inca Empire, which protected it from damage. It wasn't until 1911 that it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham, bringing it back into the awareness of the Western world.

What is the significance of the location of Machu Picchu in relation to the Andean peaks?

Machu Picchu's location follows the topography of the Andean peaks, which not only provides a natural defense but also aligns with the Inca's belief in connecting with the natural world. The site was commissioned by the Inca Emperor Pachacuti.

How did the Inca use the Inti Juanta stone at Machu Picchu?

The Inti Juanta stone, located at the highest point of Machu Picchu, was used as a 'hitching post of the sun.' The Inca would tie a rope around the stone's projection and throw it out to symbolically 'lasso' the sun during high ceremonial days, such as the equinoxes.

What is the purpose of the andean windows with a tapered top?

The andean windows with a tapered top were intentionally designed for celestial viewing. They are lined up so that one can see through them to observe the sun, especially on the summer solstice, June 21st.

How does the 'Cleft Room' at Machu Picchu demonstrate the Inca's control over their environment?

The 'Cleft Room' at Machu Picchu demonstrates the Inca's control over their environment by showcasing a combination of organic geometry with the naturally occurring stone. The Inca modified and cut out spaces to match the existing natural environment, blending raw stone with finely surfaced, finished stone.

Why was Machu Picchu a good defensive position for the Inca?

Machu Picchu was a good defensive position because of its location high in the mountains, which made it difficult to approach without being seen. This natural barrier provided a strategic advantage for the Inca elite who resided there.