Peru (Machu Picchu) May 2024

Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15th century but was abandoned during the Spanish conquest of Peru in the 16th century. The site remained hidden and forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered in 1911 by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham. 

The history of Machu Picchu is shrouded in mystery, and little is known about its purpose and function. The site is believed to have been built as a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti, who ruled the Inca Empire from 1438 to 1471. It was built on a mountain ridge overlooking the Urubamba River valley and was likely used for religious and administrative purposes.

Machu Picchu is known for its remarkable architecture, which was constructed using massive stones that were cut to fit together perfectly without the use of mortar. The site is divided into two main sections: the agricultural zone and the urban zone. The agricultural zone includes terraces for farming, while the urban zone includes temples, palaces, and residential buildings.

When the Spanish arrived in Peru in the 16th century, they conquered and destroyed the Inca Empire, including many of its cities and structures. However, Machu Picchu was abandoned and hidden in the mountains, which may have helped to preserve it from destruction.

In 1911, Hiram Bingham was led to Machu Picchu by a local farmer, and he spent several years excavating and studying the site. His work helped to bring international attention to the site, and it has since become one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination. The site attracts millions of visitors each year, and its unique architecture and stunning views of the Andes Mountains continue to captivate people from around the world.