Overview:

is the gateway to the Inca city of Machu Picchu. It’s situated at the highest point of Machu Picchu and is the last checkpoint on the classic Inca Trail. It's common for visitors to pose holding their hands up in the traditional Inca salute as they pass through the gateway. According to archaeologists, the Sun Gate was used by the Incas as the main entrance to Machu Picchu. From this entrance they could observe the entire city as well as have an unencumbered view of the Sacred Valley below. The Sun Gate is said to have been a place of worship and pilgrimage related to the Inca sun god, Inti. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

The Sun Gate (Intipunku) in Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic and recognizable features within the Inca ruins. Intipunku serves as both the entrance to the ancient site as well as the gateway to the spiritual realm from which it was believed to have been built. Made of giant stones, the Sun Gate stands proudly at the top of towering steps before visitors. Its unique and majestic design is said to represent the power of the Inca gods, with an intricate lattice-work door outlined in gold and figures of two great and powerful jaguars. As well as acting as an entranceway, the Sun Gate also provided the Inca priests with a prime spot to observe the sunrise on certain days of the year, declaring the commencement of the Inca New Year. The steps leading up to the gate are often cited as one of the most breathtaking and mesmerizing locations on the trek up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

The Sun Gate, or Intipunku in Quechua, is a crucial part of the Machu Picchu archaeological site in Peru. Located on a steep hill overlooking the city, it is believed to have been built as a ceremonial entrance to the city, and also as a symbolic gateway between the spiritual and physical worlds. The Inca built the exact location and design of the Sun Gate around 1450 CE. It was constructed on the same alignment as the Intihuatana stone on the sacred Esplanade in the center of Machu Picchu, and its orientation and size are said to reflect the sacred relationship between the mountain and the sun. The gateway has three archways which are carved into the eastern face of the mountain and three steps at the top of the gate. The archways were likely used by pilgrims or spiritual processions and offerings for those who visited the site. The Sun Gate is considered to be a crucial part of the spiritual symbolism of the site. According to traditional Inca beliefs, the world was composed of three realms: the spiritual, physical, and middle. The Sun Gate was said to be the entrance point between the physical and spiritual worlds, and to allow entry into the realm of the gods. It was also believed that the souls of the dead could pass through the Sun Gate and enter the afterlife. Today, the Sun Gate is still considered to be a special part of Machu Picchu and is visited by tourists from around the world. Visitors often take photos and marvel at the beautiful views of the urubamba valley below it. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Sun Gate, also known as Intipunku in Quechua, is located just above Machu Picchu, on a mountain ridge in Peru. 2. It was an important entrance to the Inca city for travelers, traders, and pilgrims coming from the Inca Empire. 3. It is believed to be the spot where the Incas formerly welcomed visitors to the city by performing elaborate rituals and ceremonies. 4. The Sun Gate marks the end of the original Inca Trail, travelling the Andes Mountains, and the beginning of the great city of Machu Picchu. 5. Spectacular views of Machu Picchu, including the terraces, plazas, and temples, can be seen from the Sun Gate. 6. It is located at an elevation of 2,720 metres (8,920 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest points of the ancient Inca city. 7. The Sun Gate was discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era