---
title: "Intihuatana Stone — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The Intihuatana Stone is the carved granite ritual pillar at Machu Picchu, an Inka 'hitching post of the sun' used to track solstices. A Unit 5 required image."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/key-terms/intihuatana-stone"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# Intihuatana Stone — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The Intihuatana Stone refers to a carved stone pillar found at Machu Picchu in Peru. It was believed to have served as an astronomical device or sundial by the Inca civilization.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.5 Unit 5 Required Works](/ap-art-history/unit-5/unit-5-required-works/study-guide/95i7wQegAso5Bh4rQMdR)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Machu Picchu: An ancient Inca city located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is renowned for its impressive architecture, terraces, and stunning views.
- Sundial: A device used to measure time by casting shadows onto marked surfaces using sunlight. It was widely used before mechanical clocks were invented.
- Astronomy: The scientific study of celestial objects such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies. It involves observing their movements, composition, and behavior.