Machu Picchu: Facts & History

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic and mysterious archaeological sites in the world. Located in Peru, Machu Picchu was built during the Inca Empire. It is thought to have been a royal estate or sacred religious site. 

Despite being abandoned for centuries, Machu Picchu remains remarkably well-preserved. Also, visitors from around the world come to explore its wonders. Here are some Machu Picchu facts and history to help you understand more about this fascinating site.

Discovery of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer, in 1911. Bingham and his team had been searching for the lost city of Vilcabamba, which was the last Inca stronghold to resist the Spanish conquerors. Instead, they stumbled upon Machu Picchu, which had been abandoned for more than four centuries.

Machu Picchu’s purpose is still unclear. However, it is thought to have been a royal estate or a sacred religious site. Also, its location high in the Andes mountains suggests that it may have been a place of spiritual significance for the Inca people.

History and construction

Machu Picchu was built by the Inca people in the 15th century. Its construction was a remarkable feat of engineering, as the site was built on a steep mountain ridge and required the use of sophisticated techniques to carve and shape the stone.

This ancient citadel was abandoned by the Inca people in the 16th century, possibly due to the Spanish conquest. The site remained hidden for centuries until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham.

Machu Picchu’s architecture is a testament to the Inca people’s mastery of stone construction. The site features many impressive structures, including temples, terraces, and aqueducts. The use of terraces allowed the Inca people to farm on the steep mountain slopes.

Also, Machu Picchu’s remarkable preservation is due to its remote location and the fact that it was hidden for centuries. However, the site is still at risk from erosion and tourism, and efforts are being made to protect it for future generations.

Tourism and significance

Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with millions of visitors every year. However, the site’s popularity has also led to concerns about its preservation and the impact of tourism on the surrounding environment.

Machu Picchu’s significance goes beyond its architectural and historical importance. The site is also a symbol of the Inca culture and their remarkable achievements. Machu Picchu has also played an important role in promoting tourism in Peru and showcasing the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Despite years of study and research, there are still many mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu. For example, it is still unclear why the site was abandoned and what happened to its inhabitants. Some researchers also believe that this Inca citadel may have had astronomical significance.

Additionally, Machu Picchu can be reached by train or on foot via the Inca Trail. Visitors can also explore the site with the help of a guide or take a self-guided tour. However, it is important to note that the site is at high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness.

Machu Picchu’s future

Machu Picchu’s future remains uncertain, as the site continues to face challenges from erosion, tourism, and development. However, efforts are being made to protect and preserve the site. These efforts include the implementation of sustainable tourism practices and the promotion of responsible travel.

One of the biggest challenges facing Machu Picchu is erosion. The site is located in a region that receives a high amount of rainfall. Constant rainfall can cause soil erosion and damage to the stone structures. In addition, the large number of tourists who visit the site each year can also contribute to erosion and wear and tear on the site. To combat this, efforts are being made to limit the number of visitors to the site each day.

Another challenge facing Machu Picchu is the impact of development in the surrounding area. As the nearby town of Aguas Calientes grows and expands, there is concern that the increased demand for resources and infrastructure could have a negative impact on the site. To address this, organizations are working to promote sustainable development practices in the region and to protect the natural resources that are vital to the site’s survival.

Ultimately, the future of Machu Picchu will depend on the continued efforts of governments, organizations, and individuals to protect and preserve this important historical and cultural site. By working together and promoting responsible travel practices, we can ensure that future generations are able to experience the wonder and beauty of Machu Picchu for years to come.