Located in the vicinity of one of the most marvelous lakes on Earth—Lake Titicaca—The gate of the sun was constructed thousands of years ago by an ancient culture inhabiting modern-day Bolivia, at the archaeological site of Tiahuanaco.
Ever since European explorers stumbled across the enigmatic strcuture—archaeologists, historians, and tourists have been left puzzled by the Gate of the Sun.
Among experts, it is known as one of the best examples of the degree of perfection that its building culture reached, both for the art and for the symbolism that treasures its reliefs.
Most experts agree that this ‘portal’ was created out of a single Andesite block weighing approximately 10 tons, and is approximately 9.8 ft. (3.0 m) tall and 13 ft. (4.0 m) wide.
In the past, the Gate of the Sun was part of a larger building that was most likely located at the top of the Pyramid of Akapana or at the Kalasasaya temple, where there are several constructions that are made out of the same material as the Gate of the Sun.
The Gate of
the Sun has curious depictions on its surface, the most recognizable is
that of Viracocha, who is depicted surrounded by winged creatures who
kneel before him. Are those the depictions of the same winged creatures
we see in ancient Mesopotamia? There are 32 effigies with human faces
and 16 with condors’ heads....<<<Read More>>>...
