Tiwanaku, Pre-Columbian archaeological site in La Paz Department, Bolivia

Tiwanaku is a pre-Columbian archaeological site in La Paz Department, Bolivia, near Lake Titicaca. Its remains include the Akapana terraced platform mound, the Kalasasaya enclosure, the Semi-Subterranean Temple, and the Gateway of the Sun, built from large stone blocks.

The civilization of Tiwanaku developed between 300 and 1000 AD, building a powerful empire in the Andes. Its influence extended across western Bolivia, southern Peru, and northern Chile before it declined.

The semi-subterranean temple displays 175 carved stone heads on its interior walls, each with a different face. Visitors stand surrounded by portraits representing all the peoples once part of the empire.

Tiwanaku lies at 3,885 meters above sea level, so allow extra time and rest while walking between the Kalasasaya, Akapana and Pumapunku. The excavated area covers about 4 square kilometers on flat, dry ground. Two on-site museums hold ceramics and stone sculpture, among them the 7.3-meter Bennett Monolith.

The Gateway of the Sun shows intricate carvings that demonstrate astronomical and mathematical knowledge. Some researchers believe the images also form a calendar, though its exact meaning remains debated.