New Astronomical Alignments Discovered at Machu Picchu
The mysteries of Machu Picchu never fail to captivate both researchers and travelers alike. As the recently announced results of a team of Polish and Peruvian researchers shows, there is still much to discover within the citadel itself, and inside of Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Published on 02-11-2013, por Inca World
The interest of the Inca in astronomy and its importance to their agricultural calendar, religion, and government is widely known. After all, the center of each Inca town was the intihuatana solar clock- the ‘hitching-post of the sun'. A team of Polish and Peruvian researchers have recently announced the results of their preliminary analysis of a previously unexcavated building in Machu Picchu known as El Mirador (the vantage point), hypothesizing that it was an astronomical observatory used by an elite group of Inca priest-astronomers.
After identifying El Mirador in an inaccessible part of Machu Picchu Sanctuary, along the slopes of Mt Huayna Picchu, Park Director and anthropologists Fernando Astete Victoria invited the Polish team to investigate, as their previous research within Machu Picchu Sanctuary had demonstrated the complexity of the Intimachay observatory. (These sorts of discoveries are not uncommon within the Sanctuary- as you will remember from one of our earlier articles, about a possible royal tomb discovered at Machu Picchu.) What they found is that the structure reveals a new alignment pattern, rather than the south or west-facing ceremonial complexes focusing on the solstice.
According to Professor Mariusz Ziółkowski, the Head of Pre-Columbian Research Centre at Warsaw University, since 2008 the team has been using 3D laser scans to prepare precise models and surveys of the building, obtaining in this way exact locations and alignments. Their findings were presented in September at the International Conference of the Societe Europeenne pour l' Astronomie dans la Culture in Athens.
The mysteries of Machu Picchu never fail to captivate both researchers and travelers alike. As the recently announced results of a team of Polish and Peruvian researchers shows, there is still much to discover within the citadel itself, and inside of Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Published on 02-11-2013, por Inca World
The interest of the Inca in astronomy and its importance to their agricultural calendar, religion, and government is widely known. After all, the center of each Inca town was the intihuatana solar clock- the ‘hitching-post of the sun'. A team of Polish and Peruvian researchers have recently announced the results of their preliminary analysis of a previously unexcavated building in Machu Picchu known as El Mirador (the vantage point), hypothesizing that it was an astronomical observatory used by an elite group of Inca priest-astronomers.
After identifying El Mirador in an inaccessible part of Machu Picchu Sanctuary, along the slopes of Mt Huayna Picchu, Park Director and anthropologists Fernando Astete Victoria invited the Polish team to investigate, as their previous research within Machu Picchu Sanctuary had demonstrated the complexity of the Intimachay observatory. (These sorts of discoveries are not uncommon within the Sanctuary- as you will remember from one of our earlier articles, about a possible royal tomb discovered at Machu Picchu.) What they found is that the structure reveals a new alignment pattern, rather than the south or west-facing ceremonial complexes focusing on the solstice.
According to Professor Mariusz Ziółkowski, the Head of Pre-Columbian Research Centre at Warsaw University, since 2008 the team has been using 3D laser scans to prepare precise models and surveys of the building, obtaining in this way exact locations and alignments. Their findings were presented in September at the International Conference of the Societe Europeenne pour l' Astronomie dans la Culture in Athens.
News, routes, and expert tips
Explore the latest from our Cusco travel blog. Get practical guides, Machu Picchu updates, and fresh trekking and culture recommendations. Everything you need to travel Cusco safely and stylishly in 2026. Your next Andean story starts here!
Arequipa’s white color isn’t paint: it’s volcanic stone. Discover the history, architecture, and Andean legacy of a heritage gem standing majestically at the foot of the Misti Volcano, serving as a key starting point in southern Peru.
Explore the iconic San Blas neighborhood in Cusco, known as the "Balcony of Cusco" and home to Peru's finest artisans. Discover its rich history from Inca times, how to walk from Plaza de Armas past the 12-Angled Stone, its famous art galleries (Mendívil and Mérida families), panoramic viewpoint, San Blas Church, and Saturday craft market. Plan your walking tour with Inca World Travel.
Planning a trip to Ica? Discover the top tourist attractions in Ica, Peru: the iconic Huacachina Oasis, Paracas National Reserve, enigmatic Nazca Lines, the Pisco Route, and Canyon of the Lost. Find key details on location, how to get there from Lima or Cusco, travel times, weather, and top regional museums in this comprehensive travel guide by Inca World Travel.
Are you planning to visit
Machu Picchu in 2026?
We would like to inform our travelers that availability for Circuit 1 and 2 for the months of November, December and January is at 85% of capacity. We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
New Circuits and Routes
The Ministry of Culture has consolidated the three main tours. As of 2026, Tour 2 (The Royal Route) remains the only one that allows visitors to take the classic photo from the Guardian’s House. We have adapted all our packages to ensure this access.
Digital Check-In and Biometric Verification
Say goodbye to long check-in lines! Starting this season, entry is faster thanks to the new digital check-in system. Our packages include full management of your personalized tickets to prevent errors on the state platform.
| Circuit | Ideal for... | Clasic photo | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit 1 (Panoramic) | High views and photo posts | Yes | Low |
| Circuit 2 (Andean) | Complete circuit through the ruins | Yes | Medium |
| Circuit 3 (Reality) | Persons or reduced movement | No | Very low |
Ask about our Machu Picchu packages
Explore the best of our land
Explore the breathtaking diversity of the Central Andes. From ancient archaeological wonders and surreal high-altitude landscapes to world-class gastronomy and Amazonian adventures, our updated 2026 guides showcase the very best of this premier global destination.
