Temple of the Sun

archaeological site, Isla del Sol, Bolivia

Also known as: Chinkana

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July 14, 2026

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The Temple of the Sun, located on Isla del Sol in Bolivia's Lake Titicaca, was a significant pre-Columbian site. Isla del Sol, meaning "Island of the Sun," was believed to be where Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, founders of the Inca dynasty, were sent by the sun god.1

The temple itself was likely constructed by Topa Inca Yupanqui. The island also features the Inca's Palace (Pilco Kayma) and numerous agricultural terraces dating back to Inca times. The Inca religion prominently featured the worship of the Sun god, Inti, who was considered the divine ancestor of the Inca rulers.12

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Isla del Sol
…takes its name from the Temple of the Sun, traditionally the site where Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, the founders of the Inca dynasty, were sent to earth by the sun god. The temple was probably built by Topa Inca Yupanqui (reigned c. 1471–93), who reputedly occupied the best preserved…
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…takes its name from the Temple of the Sun, traditionally the site where Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, the founders of the Inca dynasty, were sent to earth by the sun god. The temple was probably built by Topa Inca Yupanqui (reigned c. 1471–93), who reputedly occupied the best preserved…
Read More