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Encoded Landscapes: A Link between Inka Wall Orientations and Andean Geomorphology

Author

Listed:
  • Nicolás Palacios-Prado

    (Código Andino Foundation, Paine 9540000, Chile)

  • Fabiola Corominas-Sustach

    (Código Andino Foundation, Paine 9540000, Chile)

  • Andrés Pérez

    (Código Andino Foundation, Paine 9540000, Chile)

  • Danilo Verdugo

    (Department of Geospatial and Environmental Engineering, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago 9160000, Chile)

  • Tomaž Podobnikar

    (Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto, 8000 Novo Mesto, Slovenia)

Abstract

While some Inka structures and motifs align with astronomical and horizon markers, a significant portion of their constructions exhibit different patterns. We examined the potential correlation between the orientation patterns of the Inka walls and Andean geomorphology, aiming to uncover the extent to which the physical landscape guided these ancient architectural design methodologies. Using geospatial technology and specially developed peak detection and recognition software, we extensively and meticulously analyzed over 40,000 m of surveyed Inka walls and 20,000 mountain peaks across 11 distinct geographical areas. The analysis revealed a significant correlation between key wall orientations and the parallel peak alignment of the Andean Mountain Range. This suggests a purposeful encoding of landscape orientations into Inka architecture. These findings propose a novel perspective on the intricate relationship between Inka culture and the Andean highlands’ topography. Furthermore, this research introduces a distinctive methodological approach to exploring the impact of natural landscapes on architectural planning, establishing a foundation for comparative studies among other ancient civilizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicolás Palacios-Prado & Fabiola Corominas-Sustach & Andrés Pérez & Danilo Verdugo & Tomaž Podobnikar, 2024. "Encoded Landscapes: A Link between Inka Wall Orientations and Andean Geomorphology," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(4), pages 1-25, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:4:p:463-:d:1370633
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Pietro P. C. Aucelli & Ettore Valente & Gianluigi Di Paola & Vincenzo Amato & Massimo Cesarano & Marilena Cozzolino & Gerardo Pappone & Vittoria Scorpio & Carmen M. Rosskopf, 2021. "The influence of the geological–geomorphological setting on human settlements and historical urban development: the case study of Isernia (southern Italy)," Journal of Maps, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 17(4), pages 141-150, July.
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