Interpretation of traces of hypothetical quincha walls in Samaipata

Computer simulations reveal that hypothetical quincha walls, likely used for structural purposes at the Fuerte de Samaipata UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bolivia, could indeed withstand the site's strong winds. The study employed 3D laser scanning and finite element method (FEM) analysis to model and assess the structural stability of these walls, which are inferred from rows of small circular holes drilled into the rock. This research challenges previous doubts about their resilience, providing new insights into the construction techniques of pre-Hispanic cultures that developed around this sacred rock over 1200 years.

Kogut, J., Kościuk, J., & Kubicka, A. (2020). Interpretation of traces of hypothetical quincha walls in Samaipata. Architectus, (2(62)). https://doi.org/10.37190/arc200209