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Bolivia

Tiwanaku

Pre-Columbian Andean city with monumental architecture.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Tiwanaku is a significant Pre-Columbian archaeological site located in western Bolivia, near Lake Titicaca. Spanning roughly 4 square kilometers, this ancient city was a hub of the Andean civilization, featuring monumental structures, ceremonial platforms, and intricately carved stone monoliths. The city is characterized by its complex agropastoral economy, supported by trade, and its religious significance as a center for ceremonies. Major structures include the Akapana, a man-made platform mound, and the Pumapunku, with its massive stone terraces. Tiwanaku's sophisticated understanding of astronomy is evidenced by the alignment of its structures with celestial bodies. The city's decline around 1000 CE is thought to be linked to climate change and a resultant decrease in agricultural productivity.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Tiwanaku

FileBO_Tihuanako_149_17042408319.jpg
FileEdificio_de_la_segunda_Epoca_-_Vista_de_la_izquierda_1903-1904.jpg
FileMonolito_Fraile_Tiwanaku_Bolivia_36936733575.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Moats

Water Management Features

Irrigation Canals

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesCeremonial PlatformsSacred Wells

Artistic and Decorative Features

MonumentsStatues

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Terraces

Domestic and Habitation Structures

CitiesCourtyards

Environmental and Natural Features

Artificial Mounds

Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures

Observatories

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Bolivia
Source
Wikipedia