Machu picchu inca

Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas in Peru, is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, located in the Peruvian Andes.

About this subject

Machu Picchu was built by the Inca emperor Pachacuti around 1450, perched atop a mountain at 2,430 meters above sea level in the Cusco region of Peru. The city was abandoned approximately 100 years later during the Spanish conquest, but it was never discovered by the colonists, remaining hidden until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. The site is a stunning example of Inca engineering and architecture, with stones perfectly fitted without mortar, agricultural terraces, and a sophisticated drainage system.

It is believed that Machu Picchu served as a ceremonial and elite residential center, possibly dedicated to the Sun God, Inti. The site is divided into sectors such as the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (a ritual sundial), and the Hall of the Three Windows. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, elected in 2007. Approximately 1.5 million tourists visit Machu Picchu annually, leading to access restrictions for preservation.

Construction of Machu Picchu required deep knowledge of geology and astronomy. The Incas utilized natural rock fractures to carve blocks that fit perfectly, withstanding earthquakes. The site also features an agricultural terrace system that prevented erosion and provided food. Its strategic location, overlooking the Urubamba River valley, also held spiritual significance, aligning with sacred mountains and astronomical events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Machu Picchu located?

Machu Picchu is located in the Peruvian Andes, in the Cusco region, about 80 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco.

Who built Machu Picchu?

It was built by the Inca emperor Pachacuti around 1450 as a ceremonial and elite residential center.

Why is Machu Picchu famous?

It is famous for its impressive architecture, perfect stone fitting, mountainous location, and being one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.