Megalithic Sacsayhuaman: Older than the Inca? An investigation into megalithic architecture styles

TL;DR

Exploration of Saqsaywaman's varied architectural styles, suggesting pre-Incan origins for some, including massive megalithic blocks.

Transcript

hello everyone this is uncharted X my name is Ben and this is part two of my look into the enigmatic and mysterious megalithic site of saqsaywaman that sits just above cuzco in peru in the previous video we took a look at the location of saqsaywaman at its relationship to cuzco and also dug into some of the Incan symbology and the mythology that su... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ Hannon pocha, Odin Pacha, and Acone pocha represent different architectural styles at Saqsaywaman.
• 😑 Massive megalithic blocks at Saqsaywaman hint at an older, possibly pre-Incan civilization's involvement in construction.
• 💦 The Inca's repair work on megalithic structures and integration of existing blocks suggest a unique approach to architectural preservation.
• 👷 The debate surrounding the geopolymer theory adds complexity to understanding Saqsaywaman's construction techniques.
• 👷 Saqsaywaman's history reflects layers of construction by different civilizations, contributing to its mystery and allure.
• 👨‍🔬 The site's diverse architectural features, including circular structures and megalithic blocks, invite speculation and research into its origins.
• 🎨 Exploration of Saqsaywaman's lesser-known areas reveals intricate design elements and potential tunnel systems.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the three distinct architectural styles present at Saqsaywaman?

Saqsaywaman displays Hannon pocha (monolithic), Odin Pacha (megalithic), and Acone pocha (Incan) architectural styles, showcasing varying levels of craftsmanship and age.

Q: How do the massive megalithic blocks at Saqsaywaman challenge conventional Incan construction theories?

The presence of massive megalithic blocks, some weighing over 150 tons, suggests a pre-Incan origin or influence, raising questions about the builders behind these impressive structures.

Q: What evidence supports the idea that the Inca may have found and rebuilt Saqsaywaman rather than constructed it from scratch?

The Inca's repairs on the megalithic structures, use of smaller stones as foundations, and integration of existing megalithic blocks in their architecture hint at an approach of renovation rather than original construction.

Q: How do the varied architectural styles at Saqsaywaman contribute to the site's mysterious history?

The coexistence of Hannon pocha, Odin Pacha, and Acone pocha styles at Saqsaywaman suggests multiple phases of construction and diverse influences, deepening the enigmatic aura surrounding the site.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Saqsaywaman in Peru exhibits three architectural styles: Hannon pocha (monolithic), Odin Pacha (megalithic), and Acone pocha (Incan).

• The megalithic blocks at Saqsaywaman, some weighing over 150 tons, hint at a pre-Incan civilization's involvement.

• The site's intricate masonry, repairs by the Inca, and geopolymer theory debates add layers of mystery to its history.