The Twelve-Angled Stone is one of Cusco's most popular attractions. Its fame is due to the perfection of its construction. It is an enormous polished stone, which fits perfectly at each of its corners with the rest of the stones that make up the wall. It is located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street. Admission is free. It is one of the most photographed places in Cusco.
What is it?
The Twelve-Cornered Stone is a green diorite rock (widely used in important Inca constructions) that forms part of one of the walls belonging to the famous palace of Inca Roca (1350–1380). The stone weighs approximately 6 tons. It is impossible to insert a needle into its edges because its twelve angles fit perfectly with the surrounding stones.
Although there are stones with more angles in the same wall, they do not possess the perfection of the Twelve-Cornered Stone. Research indicates that if it is removed, the entire structure would collapse.
Because it is part of Cusco's Historic Center, it is considered a "National Cultural Heritage."
Where is it located?
The 12-angled stone is located on Hatun Rumiyoq Street (big stone in Quechua), almost 500 meters from the city's Plaza de Armas. It is part of an Inca wall that currently houses the Archbishop's Palace and the Museum of Religious Art of Cusco.
Getting there is easy. From the Plaza de Armas, ascend the "Triunfo" hill. This path leads to Hatun Rumiyoc Street, which is lined with shops selling crafts, jewelry, and clothing. This is where the 12-angled stone is located.
Learn its history
The 12-angled stone was one of the immense Inca walls that formed the palace of Inca Roca (the sixth ruler of the curacazgo of Cusco). In the following years, the palace was the residence of the Inca's descendants until the Spanish invaded and sacked the palace in the 16th century.
On the foundations of the 12-angled stone, the Spanish built the House of the Marquises of San Juan de Buena Vista and the Palace of the Marquises of Rocafuerte. This colonial building was later donated to the church to become the Archbishop's Palace and the Museum of Religious Art of the city of Cusco.
The immense and solid wall, but especially this stone, gained popularity among tourists who visit Cusco year after year. Currently, it is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in the Inca city.
How much does the visit cost?
The 12-angled stone is located on a public street, so there is no cost to visit.
Visits can be made at any time of day. The structure of this architectural work must be respected. Touching it is not permitted. You can learn more by requesting the company of a tour guide.
Why take care of the 12-angled stone?
The 12-angled stone is considered a National Cultural Heritage of Peru. It is also a symbol of the people of Cusco. Protecting it is the responsibility of all tourists and residents of Cusco.
Police officers guard the stone day and night. A man dressed as an Inca guards the rock from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Despite this care, some unscrupulous tourists have damaged the stone by creating graffiti. Surveillance cameras capture these incidents. The penalty for damaging National Cultural Heritage could include several years in prison.
Other free tourist attractions in Cusco
Cusco Plaza de Armas – The busiest tourist center in Cusco. It was also an administrative center during the Inca Empire. The surrounding area is home to craft and clothing stores, restaurants, hotels, and cafes. Free dance performances are often held on Sundays.
San Pedro Market – This popular market is one of the oldest in Cusco. Its architecture was designed by the famous French engineer Gustave Eiffel. It offers all kinds of groceries as well as handicrafts. There, you can learn about some aspects of Cusco culture. Free guided tours of this market and the city streets are available.
San Blas Neighborhood – This traditional neighborhood is located along the slope that leads to Hatun Rumiyoc Street (12-angled stone). It is famous for its narrow, cobblestone streets. It is also known as the city's artists and artisans neighborhood. The workshops of the Mendívil, Olave, and Mérida families are famous. It's an excellent place to purchase quality handicrafts and works of art.
The Churches of Cusco – The churches and convents located in the historic center of Cusco offer striking Baroque architecture as well as great historical significance. Admission is free during mass hours (preferably Saturday and Sunday mornings). Some of the most famous churches are: the Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, the Church of San Cristóbal, the Church of Santo Domingo, and others.
What are the opening hours?
The 12-angled stone is located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street in Cusco. Therefore, visits can be made at any time of day.
However, it is recommended to visit during peak tourist hours, from approximately 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
