Which important Inka structure was later surmounted by the church of Santo Domingo?

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Study for the Texas AandM University ARTS150 Art History Survey II Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Sharpen your knowledge for success!

The Inka Temple of the Sun, known as the Qorikancha, is the correct answer, as it served an essential role in Inka religious architecture. This structure was one of the most significant temples in the Inka Empire, dedicated to Inti, the sun god, and renowned for its impressive stonework and the richness of its interior, which was once adorned with gold.

After the Spanish conquest, the church of Santo Domingo was constructed directly on top of the Qorikancha site, symbolizing the efforts to overlay Spanish colonization and Christianity upon the existing indigenous belief systems. This appropriation not only demonstrates the architectural significance of the original Inka structure but also illustrates the broader socio-political dynamics of colonialism.

The other options, while significant in their own right, do not directly relate to the church of Santo Domingo. The Intihuatana is a ritual stone associated with astronomy, and Sacsayhuamán is a large archaeological site that served as a fortress. Both hold distinct historical importance but are not directly associated with the church that was built over the Temple of the Sun.