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Machu Picchu — Peru’s world wonder
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the ingenuity prowess of the ancient Inca civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must see for travelers and historians alike, drawing visitors from across the globe to marvel at its breathtaking beauty and mysterious past.
History and Discovery
Built around the 15th century during the height of the Inca empire, Machu Picchu served as a royal estate for Inca Emperor Pachacuti. Its location, hidden amidst mist-shrouded peaks and lush green valleys, likely provided strategic and ceremonial impact to the Incas. However, the site was abandoned during the Spanish conquest of Peru in the 16th century and remained largely forgotten by the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham.
Architecture and Design
The architectural marvels of Machu Picchu blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The site is divided into two main areas: the agricultural sector, with terraced fields that once sustained the inhabitants with maize and potatoes, and the urban sector, which includes temples, plazas, and residential buildings crafted from cut stone blocks. Notable structures such as Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone (believed to have astronomical significance), and the Room of the Three…
