Interpreting Machu Picchu—Lost City of the Incas January 20, 2008

Although Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, it still remains a mystery. Even the most basic questions as to its meaning have long remained unanswered. In this presentation Dr. Reinhard will examine Machu Picchu from the perspective of sacred landscape and archaeoastronomy. Using information gathered from historical, archaeological, and ethnographical sources, he will demonstrate that the site is situated in the center of sacred mountains, several of which are associated with the sun’s passage. Taken together, these features have meant that Machu Picchu formed a cosmological and sacred geographical center for a vast region. Dr. Reinhard will then examine some key architectural features at Machu Picchu and nearby sites and interpret them as forming parts of this ceremonial center, where economic, political, and religious factors combined to lead to their construction in one of the most rugged areas of Peru.

Second Floor North American Mammal Hall, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Cosponsored by the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology and the Natural History Museum

Free with museum admission

Official Website: http://www.ioa.ucla.edu/events.php