The ancient walled complex of Saksaywaman in Peru has baffled scientists and archaeologists for decades. The precision of the stonework, with its rounded corners and interlocking shapes, challenges our understanding of ancient construction techniques. Could it be that the ancient Peruvians possessed knowledge or technologies that allowed them to soften or melt stone? This intriguing possibility has spurred numerous theories and investigations into the methods used by these master builders.
Unraveling the Mystery of the Stones
Marble sculpture
The Saksaywaman complex features mᴀssive stone blocks, some weighing several tons, intricately fitted together without the use of mortar. The stones display signs of being heated to high temperatures, resulting in a glᴀssy and smooth exterior. Researchers Jan Peter de Jong, Christopher Jordan, and Jesus Gamarra have noted these characteristics, suggesting the use of advanced technology to melt and mold the stones into place.
One theory posits that the ancient builders used a plant-based substance to soften the stones. This idea, while seemingly far-fetched, is supported by anecdotal evidence and historical accounts. For instance, British archaeologist and explorer Colonel Percy Fawcett described hearing about a solvent that could soften stone to the consistency of clay. Fawcett’s son, Brian Fawcett, recounted a story of a miner in Peru who accidentally discovered a liquid that softened rock upon contact.
Scientific Investigations and Theories
Marble sculpture
David Hatcher Childress, in his book “Ancient Technology in Peru and Bolivia,” explores the notion that high-tech devices were used to melt stone blocks, which were then placed and allowed to cool in their precise positions. This theory is supported by observations of vitrified stone surfaces, which suggest exposure to temperatures as high as 1,100 degrees Celsius.
Jong and Jordan argue that various ancient civilizations, not just the Peruvians, were familiar with high-temperature stone melting techniques. Similar vitrification has been observed in other ancient sites, indicating a widespread knowledge of this advanced technology.
Plant-Based Softening Agents
Sacsayhuaman – Cusco, Peru.
The idea that plant substances could soften stone has a basis in both legend and observation. In the Amazon, a rare bird has been seen using a twig with a special sap to create nests in rock faces, suggesting a natural chemical that can dissolve stone. This aligns with accounts of a plant in the Chuncho district near the Pyrene River, described by Fawcett as having reddish-brown leaves and standing about a foot tall.
Such accounts, while anecdotal, hint at the possibility that ancient builders may have harnessed natural substances to achieve their architectural feats. The exact nature of these substances remains a topic of speculation and ongoing research.
The precise stonework of Saksaywaman and other ancient sites raises profound questions about the technological capabilities of early civilizations. Whether through advanced tools, natural chemical agents, or a combination of both, these ancient builders achieved feats that continue to inspire awe and curiosity.
Stonework of ancient Peru.
Modern scientists and archaeologists are still piecing together the methods used to construct these monumental structures. The possibility that ancient Peruvians used plant-based softening agents or high-temperature technologies challenges our understanding of their technological prowess and suggests a level of sophistication that has yet to be fully appreciated.
The mysteries of Saksaywaman offer a tantalizing glimpse into the ingenuity and skill of ancient civilizations. As research continues, new discoveries may shed light on the techniques used to create these architectural marvels, revealing the true extent of their technological achievements. Whether through plants that softened stone or advanced tools, the legacy of these ancient builders continues to captivate and intrigue us, prompting us to reconsider what we know about the past.
