UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Kalasasaya
Bolivia

Kalasasaya

Large stone platform with sunken courtyard

Location

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Historical Context

About

The Kalasasaya, part of the Tiwanaku archaeological complex in western Bolivia, is a significant pre-Columbian structure. It features a large platform mound with a sunken courtyard, bordered by high walls made of alternating sandstone pillars and ashlar masonry. This monumental site, dating from at least 200 BCE to 200 CE, demonstrates advanced architectural and astronomical knowledge, as it is aligned with the cardinal directions. Its position within Tiwanaku, close to other notable structures like the Akapana and the Semi-Subterranean Temple, highlights its importance in ritual and ceremonial activities. The Kalasasaya's reconstruction in the mid-20th century preserves its historical integrity, offering insights into the complex societal and cultural practices of the Tiwanaku civilization.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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FilePlein_Tiwanaku.jpg
Temporal Epochs

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Construction of Kalasasaya

200 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Religious and Ritual Structures

Ceremonial PlatformsTemples
category

Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures

Stone Alignments
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Bolivia

Coordinates

-16.55° N, -68.67° E