Temple of the Sun

Definition

The Temple of the Sun, known as 'Coricancha' in Quechua, was a significant Inca temple located in Cusco, Peru, dedicated to Inti, the sun god. This temple was not only a central place of worship but also served as an important cultural and political symbol for the Inca civilization, reflecting their religious beliefs and architectural advancements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Temple of the Sun was adorned with gold leaf and had walls covered in gold plating, symbolizing the wealth and power of the Inca civilization.
2. It served as an astronomical observatory, where priests would track celestial events to create calendars that were essential for agricultural planning.
3. Following the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, much of the temple was destroyed, with stones repurposed for colonial buildings like the Church of Santo Domingo.
4. The temple's layout and design demonstrated advanced engineering techniques used by the Incas, including precision stonework that allowed for seismic stability.
5. The Coricancha was surrounded by other temples dedicated to different deities, emphasizing the importance of religion and spirituality in Inca society.

Review Questions

• How did the Temple of the Sun reflect the religious beliefs and cultural practices of the Inca civilization?
  • The Temple of the Sun was a focal point for Inca religious life, dedicated to Inti, showcasing their deep reverence for solar deities. The temple's construction, adorned with gold, represented not just wealth but also their belief in the divine connection between rulers and gods. Rituals performed at Coricancha were integral to agricultural cycles and societal order, illustrating how spirituality was woven into everyday life.
• Discuss the architectural significance of the Temple of the Sun in relation to other structures in Cusco.
  • The Temple of the Sun exemplified Inca architectural ingenuity with its precise stone masonry that has endured seismic activity over centuries. Its unique design included trapezoidal doors and windows that contributed to both aesthetic appeal and structural stability. This architectural style influenced other structures within Cusco, where stones were carefully fitted without mortar, demonstrating their advanced building techniques that were vital for creating lasting monuments.
• Evaluate the impact of Spanish conquest on the Temple of the Sun and what it reveals about cultural interactions during this period.
  • The Spanish conquest led to significant destruction of the Temple of the Sun, with much of its wealth stripped away and its stones repurposed for colonial structures like Santo Domingo. This transformation highlights a broader pattern of cultural erasure and adaptation as colonizers imposed their beliefs while incorporating some aspects of indigenous architecture. The remnants of Coricancha serve as a powerful symbol of resistance and continuity amid colonial disruption, reflecting complex interactions between native traditions and European influences.

Related terms

Inti: The sun god worshipped by the Incas, considered the most important deity in the Inca pantheon and often associated with agriculture and prosperity.

Cusco: The historic capital of the Inca Empire, known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun.

Sapa Inca: The emperor of the Inca Empire, regarded as both a political and religious leader, often believed to be a direct descendant of Inti.