Andina

Peru: Glass cover to protect Cusco's iconic Twelve-Angled Stone

13:17 | Cusco (Cusco region), Mar. 13.

The iconic Twelve-Angled Stone, located on the exterior of the Inca Roca Palace, just one block from Cusco's Plaza de Armas (Main Square), will be protected and monitored to prevent attacks or damage, such as those recorded in recent years.

Authorities from the Decentralized Culture Directorate in Cusco (DDC Cusco), the Metropolitan Archdiocese, and the Municipality of Cusco held an initial technical meeting to discuss protecting the Twelve-Angled Stone following an evaluation of the recent hammer attack carried out by an artisan, who is now in preventive detention.


In remarks to Andina News Agency, DDC Cusco Chief Jorge Moya emphasized the importance of the meeting with representatives from the municipality, which manages the street (Hatunrumiyoc passage); the archdiocese, which owns the Archbishop's Palace–Inca Roca Palace; and his institution, which is responsible for safeguarding Cultural and World Heritage.

Moya stated that a preliminary diagnosis of the lithic element's condition is currently underway.

During the next two months, a thorough cleaning of the Inca Palace will be conducted, followed by measures to protect the Twelve-Angled Stone.

Over time, the stone walls have accumulated traces of dust, splashes, plaster residues, dog and pigeon excrement, as well as stains, crusts, and salt deposits, which affect the surfaces of the lithic pieces, creating a deteriorated appearance.

The cleaning process will be mechanical, using hydrophobic and consolidating agents that will allow for deep cleaning while simultaneously protecting the surfaces and structural integrity of the stone elements.

"We have agreed on certain measures, such as placing a glass panel in front of the wall, which will be implemented following a proper study," Moya told Andina News Agency, adding that further meetings are planned.

He also mentioned that a competition will be held to gather project proposals aimed at protecting the stone.

After the recent incidents recorded on surveillance cameras, the official confirmed that monitoring is ongoing.

This role is fulfilled by the Peruvian National Police and Citizen Security, both of which participated in the meetings. Authorities have confirmed that surveillance will remain constant.


Carnival Celebrations

After Carnival Day, the cultural entity recorded up to 165 lithic elements from Inca walls in the Historic Center showing damage from paint, foam, and other substances, all of which have already been cleaned.

Fortunately, no damage was reported this past weekend, but authorities continue to monitor the area closely as celebrations continue, particularly on weekends.

(END) PHS/MAO/JMP/MVB

Published: 3/13/2025