Machu Picchu Peru

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. It’s renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar, intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments and panoramic views.

Here are some interesting facts about Machu Picchu:

• It was built in the 15th century and later abandoned.
• It’s renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar.
• Intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments
• Panoramic views
• Its exact former use remains a mystery

Machu Picchu is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Latin America and the most visited in Peru. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.

History shrouded in mystery:

• While construction is believed to be around 1450 by Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the exact purpose remains a debated topic. Theories range from a royal retreat to a religious site.
• The Spanish conquest in the 16th century led to its abandonment and the site remained largely hidden until 1911 when explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention. There are local legends suggesting villagers knew about it much earlier.

Architectural marvels:

• Machu Picchu is famous for its dry-stone Inca architecture. The stones are cut with incredible precision and fit together seamlessly without mortar.
• The citadel is divided into an upper and lower section, likely separating the agricultural and residential areas.
• Notable structures include the Intihuatana, a possible astronomical observatory, and the Temple of the Sun, showcasing expert stonework.

Intriguing location and surroundings:

• Perched at 2,430 meters above sea level, the location offered a milder climate than the Inca capital, Cusco.
• The beauty of the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes surrounds Machu Picchu, with the Urubamba River snaking through the valley below.
• The site likely had agricultural terraces, demonstrating advanced farming techniques for a civilization of that era.

Modern day significance:

• Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Machu Picchu is a cultural treasure of Peru.
• It's a major tourist destination, and strict measures are in place to balance tourism with preservation.
• Machu Picchu continues to be a source of fascination, with ongoing archaeological research to unlock its secrets.