The Results Of Research Conducted By The Polish Archaeological And Conservation Mission Sent By The Ministry Of Culture And National Heritage And Ministry Of Foreign Affairs (Republic Of Poland) In The Area Of The Archaeological Park Of Machu Picchu(Peru)

Abstract

In August 2008, the Polish Archaeological-Restoration Mission carried out research in the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park with the aim of analyzing the state of preservation of stone elements of some of Machu Picchus monuments: Torreón, Tumba Real, Roca Sagrada, Intimachay, Templo del Cóndor as well as Wayna Picchu. The analysis was made from two perspectives: an architectural analysis of the state of preservation of the walls and block of stones and a restorer’s analysis of the deposits and damage to the stone surface. During work at the Machu Picchu site, samples were taken for further laboratory analysis. The laboratory investigation focused on the composition of the minerals contained in the stone and the different types of deposits identified on the surface of the stone. A basic description of the micro-biological deposits was also made. In the case of Torreón, its state of preservation was registered in a graphic form in the Geographic Information System (GIS). The conclusions present recommendations for conservation and proposals for further investigation.