Its exact purpose is unknown. It must have been some sort of an astronomical or archaeological object. Some scientists think it was used for determining the solstices by tracking the sun rays and reflecting them in various ways.
The Incas had lots of special stones with special purposes, but unfortunately almost all have been lost in conflicts with the invading Spaniards. The Machu Picchu Intihuatana is one of the very few that has survived.
Unknown what exactly it was used for, the Intihuatana captures the attention of tourists, who often believe that the stone possesses magical powers.
The stone, like many others in the complex, is surrounded by a rope fence, pointing out to the fact that it’s not allowed to step on it or sit on it. However, many visitors put their hands on it.
During the filming of a a beer commercial, the Intihuatana was damaged, part of it was broken down.
It is the only complete Intihuatana, that’s why it is unimaginable how the authorities allowed it to be used in an irresponsible filming act.
It’s good that it’s almost perfect, the damage was minimal.