Twelve Angled Stone | Cusco

Information

Landmark: Twelve Angled Stone
City: Cusco
Country: Peru
Continent: South America

Twelve Angled Stone, Cusco, Peru, South America

The Twelve Angled Stone is a precisely cut stone block located in Cusco, Peru, forming part of an Inca wall. It is situated on Hatun Rumiyoc Street.

Visual Characteristics

This is a single, large polygonal stone block. It is composed of andesite and exhibits twelve distinct angles. The surface is smooth and precisely fitted to adjacent stones without mortar. Its dimensions are approximately 2.6 meters in height, 4.5 meters in width, and 1.1 meters in depth.

Location & Access Logistics

The Twelve Angled Stone is located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street in Cusco, Peru. It is approximately 300 meters southeast of the Plaza de Armas. Access is via pedestrian walkways. No dedicated parking is available directly at the site; visitors typically park in public garages near the Plaza de Armas. Public bus routes serving the city center stop within a 5-minute walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

This stone is a product of Inca stonemasonry, dating from the 15th century. It was part of the palace of the Inca ruler Inca Roca. The stone was shaped using advanced Inca techniques for fitting polygonal blocks, demonstrating their engineering capabilities. The material is local andesite, quarried nearby.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the stone's precise angles and fitting. Photography of the unique construction. Visitors can walk along Hatun Rumiyoc Street to view the wall.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No restrooms or shade structures are directly at the site. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and small shops are located along Hatun Rumiyoc Street and surrounding areas.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) offers direct sunlight on the stone, enhancing visibility of its angles. Afternoon light can create shadows. The best months for visiting Cusco are typically April through October, during the dry season.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the precision of the stone's angles was achieved through a process of heating and cooling the rock, or by using a secret Inca technique that allowed them to shape stone with extreme accuracy. The stone is a prime example of the Inca's sophisticated architectural and engineering skills.