|
Machu Picchu
was constructed around 1450, at the height of the
Inca Empire, and was abandoned less than 100 years
later, as the empire collapsed under Spanish
conquest. Although the citadel is located only about
50 miles from [Cusco], the Inca capital, it was
never found and destroyed by the Spanish, as were
many other Inca sites. Over the centuries, the
surrounding jungle grew to enshroud the site, and
few knew of its existence. In 1911, Yale historian
and explorer
Hiram Bingham brought the "lost" city
to the world’s attention. Bingham and others
hypothesized that the citadel was the traditional
birthplace of the Inca people or the spiritual
center of the "virgins of the suns," while curators
of a recent exhibit have speculated that Machu
Picchu was a royal retreat.
It is thought that the site was chosen for its
unique location and geological features. It is said
that the silhouette of the mountain range behind
Machu Picchu represents the face of the Inca looking
upward towards the sky, with the largest peak,
Huayna Picchu (meaning Young Peak), representing his
pierced nose.
In 1913, the site received significant publicity
after the National Geographic Society devoted their
entire April issue to Machu Picchu.
On July 7, 2007, Machu Picchu was voted as one of
New Open World Corporation's New Seven Wonders of
the World. . |
|
Machu Picchu
Highlights:
Accomodation in Machu Picchu
From 5-star hotels to backpacker hostals, the finest
spots in the former
Inca Capital to lay your bones after a day-long
hike.
Be Safe: Travel Insurance
Learn why taking out travel insurance before
travelling to Peru is a good idea.
Train or Hike?
If you are not the
Inca Trail type, consider
Rail Transport to
Machu Picchu. Trains are the best transport
mean to get to the Lost City of the Incas (besides
your own legs, that is). Check the different rail
ruotes, departures, prices, and carriage
qualities.
Restaurants & Pubs
Search
for a Peruvian restaurant near you.
Tours in Machu Picchu
Find good option to take a tours in Machu Picchu
Facts about Machu Picchu
Everything tips before to arrive to Machu Picchu.
|
