Machu Picchu – An Overview
Machu Picchu, a unique Incan archaeological site, is located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was discovered in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham, and is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.
Machu Picchu was built around 1450 by the Incas, and it is believed to have been a royal estate of the Inca emperor Pachacuti. It was abandoned for unknown reasons around 1572, and it remained largely unknown until its rediscovery by Bingham.
History of Machu Picchu
The Inca civilization began to develop in the Peruvian Andes around the year 1200. By the mid-15th century, the Inca Empire had grown to encompass most of modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Chile.
At the height of their power, the Incas built a number of impressive cities, including Machu Picchu. The city was built around 1450 and was used as a royal estate of the Inca emperor Pachacuti.
Machu Picchu was abandoned by the Incas around 1572, likely due to the Spanish Conquest of Peru. The city remained largely unknown until 1911, when it was rediscovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham.
The Site Today
Today, Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. In 1983, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2007, it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The site consists of a number of well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and terraces. The most famous of these is the Intihuatana, a carved stone pillar that is believed to have been used for astronomical purposes.
The city is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Moon, and the Sacred Plaza. Visitors can also explore the Inca Trail, a 4-day trek that leads to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
Machu Picchu and the Inca Civilization
Machu Picchu is a unique archaeological site that offers insight into the Inca civilization. The city provides evidence of the Incas’ advanced engineering skills, as well as their spiritual beliefs.
The city is also a testament to the Incas’ ability to adapt to their environment. The site was built on a mountain ridge, and the Incas used the natural features of the landscape to their advantage.
The city is also a reminder of the Incas’ reverence for the natural world. The city was built in harmony with nature, and many of the structures, including the terraces, were designed to be in balance with the environment.
Visiting Machu Picchu
Visiting Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The site is open to visitors from April to October, and it is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
The site can be reached by train from Cusco, or by taking the Inca Trail. It is also possible to take a helicopter tour of the site for a truly spectacular view.
Visitors should also be aware that there are certain restrictions in place. For example, the site is closed on Mondays, and visitors are not allowed to climb on the ruins.
Conclusion
Machu Picchu is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. It is a reminder of the Incas’ advanced engineering skills, their reverence for the natural world, and their ability to adapt to their environment.
Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, and it should be on the bucket list of any traveler to South America. With its stunning views and fascinating ruins, it is truly a wonder of the world.