High in the Eastern Cordillera in Cusco, Peru, Machu Picchu the most iconic landmark of the Inca civilization (discovered so far), a Citadel that has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Buikt in 1450, it is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Located 2,400 meters above the sea, Machu Picchu is one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Incas and the Old World. It is so perfectly built that it is able to survive earthquakes, pretty common in Peru and specifically in Machu Picchu, as the site was built on top to two fault lines.
It is the most visited attraction in Peru, and it was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Visiting Machu Picchu is definitely a must in you are going to Peru, an unique way to experience history, natural beauty, and a deep sense of spirituality all in just one place.
History
Machu Picchu was supposedly built between 1450 and 1460 by the emperor Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui. Unfortunately, the incas only stayed there for 80 years, until the arrival of the Spanish conquerors.
Although the Spanish did not know about Machu Picchu, the incas decided to abandon the city, which remained unknown until 1911 when Hiram Bingham, an american archeologist, arrived with a local Quechua guide, looking for Vilcabamba instead. (There are theories that say that german Augusto Berns arrived before in 1867, but they aren’t confirmed and the site didn’t become widely known until after 1911 )
Machu Picchu was used as a royal state, the place where the emperor used to live, in addition to the serving staff and some other religious specialists and temporary workers.
Over 200 structures make up for the Sanctuary, dividing them in two areas: the agricultural center, featuring terraces of incredible engineering, with water drainage, soil fertility and also protecting the mountain from erosion, and the urban center, featuring religious, ceremonial, astronomical and residential areas.
It was assumed that Machu Picchu was the Lost City of Vilcabamba, the hidden city where the Incas escaped to after the arrival of the Spanish. However, it was proved in 1956 that the lost city of Vilcabamba is located in the jungle 50 miles west of the citadel.
Note: The weather in Machu Picchu can be unpredictable since it is located at a high altitude in the Andes Mountains. The site experiences two seasons: dry and rainy season.
The dry season is from May to October, and it is the most popular time to visit. During this period, the weather is usually sunny with cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. Daytime temperatures can range from around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), great conditions for exploring the ruins and hiking the Inca Trail.
