Machu Picchu is a destination full of history, in this article you will discover curious facts such as:
You will find a lot of information about its construction in the Andes that will help you appreciate this modern wonder even more.
It was built by the Incas and is currently one of the most impressive wonders of the world, now learn more:
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by Inca Pachacuti as a spiritual refuge and administrative center. Its location on a mountain by the Urubamba River symbolized the connection with nature and the gods.
The Incas abandoned Machu Picchu after the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. Although they never found the site, it is believed that factors like disease and pressure from other regions forced the Incas to abandon this refuge, which ceased to be an important center for them.
Machu Picchu is often confused as the Lost City of the Incas, but in reality, that title belongs to Vilcabamba, the last refuge from the Spanish. Although it wasn't the legendary city, this citadel remained hidden until its rediscovery in the 20th century.
In 1911, American explorer Hiram Bingham arrived at Machu Picchu with local guides; although he wasn't the first to visit, his rediscovery of the site made it famous, attracting global attention and turning it into an important tourist and cultural destination.
The Inca Trail is a ceremonial route used by the Incas to reach Machu Picchu. This path crosses several ecosystems and showcases the Incas' ability to adapt to nature and connect different landscapes on their way to the sanctuary.
During Bingham's excavations, several objects were sent to Yale University. After years of legal disputes, in 2011, Peru managed to recover them, and they are now displayed in the Machu Picchu museum in Cusco.
Some archaeologists suggest that Machu Picchu could have been an unfinished project, as certain areas appear to be under construction.
The architecture of Machu Picchu is an impressive example of Inca engineering, its structures are built with perfectly fitted stones without mortar, which has allowed many of them to remain intact over the centuries.
Machu Picchu was designed to withstand earthquakes thanks to its mortar-free construction, where stones are perfectly carved and fitted. This system allows the structures to shift slightly during an earthquake without collapsing, demonstrating advanced Inca engineering.
The hydraulic system of Machu Picchu is a testament to engineering knowledge. Through fountains, canals, and terraces, water is efficiently distributed to support both agriculture and the daily supply for residents, ensuring their survival in the mountainous environment.
Near the Machu Picchu citadel, you can climb Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. The former is known for its steep climb and panoramic views, while the latter offers a more tranquil experience and is less crowded, with equally stunning views of the site.
It was used by the Incas as an astronomical observatory. The Intihuatana stone was carved with precision and served to measure solstices and equinoxes, reflecting the deep knowledge the Incas had of the movements of the sun and stars.
Machu Picchu is divided into two main sectors: one agricultural and the other urban. The terraces ensured food supply, while the urban sector housed residences, temples, and administrative space, reflecting both the practical and spiritual importance of the site.
Machu Picchu was never discovered by the Spanish conquerors due to its remote location among the mountains. This natural isolation helped keep the site hidden and unspoiled, preserving its integrity for centuries.
The Temple of the Moon, located in a cave on Huayna Picchu, is one of the lesser-known places in Machu Picchu. This site carved into the rock reflects the Incas' architectural skill and their spiritual connection to nature. It is an important ceremonial center, full of curiosities, such as its precise alignment with the stars, showing the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Incas. Additionally, the fact that it was never discovered by the Spanish helped its preservation.
Discover what makes this hidden citadel so special.
"Machu Picchu" comes from Quechua and means "Old Mountain," referring to its high-altitude location. While its original name is unknown, it is believed that it may have been different, but it was lost over time. Its current name reflects the importance of the mountain in Inca culture.
Although llamas are an iconic image of Machu Picchu, they are not native to the site. These animals were introduced in modern times for tourism purposes. In the Inca era, llamas were more common in other regions of the empire.
The climate has two main seasons: the dry season from May to October, and the rainy season from November to April. The dry season is best for clear views, while the rainy season offers greener landscapes, but with higher chances of precipitation.
To reach the citadel, tourists have two main options: hike the Inca Trail or take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes; from there, you can take a bus to the entrance of the archaeological site.
The true name of Machu Picchu remains a topic of debate. Some experts suggest that the site may have originally been called "Patallaqta." This mystery continues to be discussed among archaeologists and historians.
A popular theory suggested that Machu Picchu was a retreat solely for women, but recent research shows that it was inhabited by both men and women, mostly nobles and priests. This debunks the myth that only women lived in this place.
It is one of the new seven wonders of the world and was built without the use of mortar. The site was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham.
After the Inca abandonment, the site was covered by vegetation, making it practically invisible. For centuries, only local communities knew its location. It was in 1911 when Hiram Bingham rediscovered it, attracting worldwide attention to this hidden place.
Reaching this wonder requires some physical effort, whether through the Inca Trail, which takes several days, or by climbing steep stairs. This physical effort enhances the reward of arriving at the sanctuary, giving visitors a sense of achievement and connection with the place.
Machu Picchu is surrounded by legends, such as the belief in ancestral spirits protecting the site. These stories are passed down through generations and contribute to the mystery and mysticism surrounding the site, attracting many visitors seeking a connection with the supernatural.
It covers about 32,500 hectares, including agricultural terraces, temples, and urban areas. Its strategic layout reflects advanced planning.
The Intihuatana not only functioned as an astronomical marker, but also as a solar clock. The Incas used it to measure and coordinate their agricultural and ceremonial activities by taking advantage of the sun's position at different times of the year.
Advanced construction techniques, such as interlocking stones without mortar, allowed the structures to be flexible during earthquakes. This engineering skill enabled them to build resilient buildings capable of withstanding natural disasters.
Learn more about this site that holds many unanswered questions. Let us take you to this majestic place and without worries, contact us at +51 944 714 563 or email info@illapa.com, and we will take care of everything.
