ancient ruins
Tiwanaku
The spiritual and political center of the Tiwanaku civilization near Lake Titicaca, featuring the iconic Sun Gate, semi-subterranean temple, and precision-cut stone architecture.
1 km · about 5 min drive
South AmericaBoliviaLa Paz Department
Tiahuanaco
La Paz Department, Bolivia · South America
About Tiahuanaco
Tiahuanaco is worth a stop: 30 minutes from Pucarani, 1km from Tiwanaku.
Tiahuanaco is a town located in La Paz Department, Bolivia. With a population of 3,037, it is an important destination in South America.
On a road trip, Tiahuanaco sits in Bolivia. It's in the America/La Paz time zone. Below you'll find where to stay, things to do nearby, and everything you need to add Tiahuanaco to your route.
About Tiahuanaco
The Gate of the Sun, also known as the Gateway of the Sun (in older literature simply called "(great) monolithic Gateway of Ak-kapana"), is a monolithic gateway at the site of Tiahuanaco, built by the Tiwanaku culture, an Andean civilization of Bolivia that thrived around Lake Titicaca in the Andes of western SouthRead more
America around AD 500–950.
Tiwanaku is located near Lake Titicaca at about 12,549.2 ft (3,825.0 m) above sea level near La Paz, Bolivia. The Gate of the Sun is approximately 9.8 ft (3.0 m) tall and 13 ft (4.0 m) wide, and was carved from a single piece of stone. Its weight is estimated to be 10 tons. When rediscovered by European explorers in the mid-19th century, the megalith was lying horizontally and had a large crack through it. It presently stands in the location where it was found, although it is believed that this is not its original site, which remains uncertain. Antigüedades peruanas (1851) uses an engraving of the gateway as the frontispiece to its folio.
Some elements of Tiwanaku iconography spread throughout Peru and parts of Bolivia. Although there have been various modern interpretations of the inscriptions found on the object, the carvings that decorate the gate are believed to possess astronomical or astrological significance and may have served a calendrical purpose. In addition, scholars suggest that the design below the central figure is meant to represent celestial cycles. Being a later monument to the site in which it stands, the Gateway of the Sun could have also represented a transition from lunar religion to a solar religion based on its positioning to the sun to the West.
Where to Stay in Tiahuanaco
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Tiahuanaco?
Tiahuanaco offers many attractions including tourist sites, museums, parks, and local restaurants. Explore famous landmarks, scenic roads, and natural wonders on our interactive map and plan your visit.
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Where is Tiahuanaco located?
Tiahuanaco is located in La Paz Department, Bolivia, South America. The coordinates are -16.5523 latitude, -68.6795 longitude.
What is the population of Tiahuanaco?
Tiahuanaco has a population of approximately 3,037 people, making it a town in Bolivia.
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Quick Information
- Population
- 3,037
- Continent
- South America
- Country
- Bolivia
- Region
- La Paz Department
- Timezone
- America/La_Paz
- Coordinates
- -16.5523, -68.6795
Tags
Worth the detour from Tiahuanaco
3 notable places within an hour's drive.
landmark
La Paz
The world's highest administrative capital set in a dramatic canyon, with the Mi Teleferico cable car network and the famous Witches' Market.
57 km · about 65 min drive
landmark
La Paz Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas)
A surreal street market in the world's highest capital selling dried llama fetuses, potions, and Aymara spiritual offerings.
58 km · about 65 min drive
Driving roads near Tiahuanaco
- 65 kmHuayna PotosíA 6,088-meter peak near La Paz that is one of the world's most accessible 6,000-meter summits, offering glacier climbing for beginners.
When to drive here
Year-round
Tropical latitude: plan around the wet season rather than temperature.
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Other places to explore near Tiahuanaco.
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