El Shincal de Quimivil
Located in the province of Catamarca, it is one of the most important and emblematic archaeological sites evidencing the Inca presence in northwestern Argentina.
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In the background, the Eastern Cerro Aterrazado (a sacred hill, artificially flattened and accessed through a stone staircase).
The built structures (terms in Quechua language) are:
Aukaipata: Central square, 175 x 175 m arranged according to the cardinal directions. Remains of the delimitation wall can be seen at the bottom of the image. The larger double wall of about 60 m length and four doors is a symbolic threshold to limit the visibility and determined the approach to the ceremonial space.
Ushnu: Ceremonial platform where local authorities were honored, judgments were pronounced, religious ceremonies with libations and offerings were held, and astronomical observations were made.
Kallanka: Rectangular building of stone walls and gabled roofs destined to diverse political, administrative, ceremonial activities.
Sinchiwasi: The remains can barely be seen. First supposed to be barracks, this building complex probably housed the workers in charge of the construction and maintenance of the buildings.
© Photo: Haupt & Binder, Universes in Universe
Located in the province of Catamarca, it is one of the most important and emblematic archaeological sites evidencing the Inca presence in northwestern Argentina.