Machu Picchu is a scenic location that was created as a citadel for the
Incan Empire in the 15th century. It sits atop the Sacred Valley of the
Incas in Peru and is considered to be one of the most beautiful
locations on the planet. In a worldwide internet poll that was done in
2007, Machu Picchu was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the
World, further cementing its claim as a globally recognized and
appreciated site. It is one of the most sought-after
travel destinations in the world.
There are a lot of things to say and learn about Machu Picchu. Its
purpose, construction, architecture, and legacy are as wonderous to the
mind as the location is to the eyes. Here are a couple of things that
are noteworthy about Machu Picchu.
-
Creation, Purpose, and Inhabitants
Machu Picchu was built around the mid-14th century and it
was built for the Inca King Pachacutec. During its time as a Royal
Estate, it was inhabited by around 700 people, if not more. People of
royal lineage and people who aren’t lived in this gorgeous estate.
These inhabitants consisted of religious figures, specialists,
workers, amongst others. These people were called Yanaconas.
The purpose of its construction remains an enigma to
experts, although many have different theories. It is believed that
the place once served as a retreat location for nobles, or a
stronghold for the Inca Empire’s military, even a sacrificial site for
mysticism and rituals. It is also believed that the king commissioned
its construction as a celebration after a successful military
campaign. Whatever the case may be, there is no denying the
significance or legacy it left today.
-
Content and Construction
The entire place consists of several houses, temples, main
plazas, aqueduct channels, a jail, and a guard house. There are also a
couple of water fountains and places that would have been used as food
deposits by the Yanaconas. These buildings and stoneworks are well
preserved to this day, with the exception of a couple of roofs that
were made of grass and branches.
Machu Picchu is built with cut-up and polished dry stone.
The stones were collected from the plateau on which the site was
constructed so the collection was fairly simple for the people of the
Inca Empire. What is brilliant about its construction is that the
people who built Machu Picchu could not have used wheels to allow for
easier transport because they had no notion of its existence then.
They also did not use mortar to stick the stones together, they simply
cut the stones in such precision that they fit perfectly when put
together, like pieces to a puzzle. The stones fit each other so
perfectly that not even a needle can fit in between the rocks, and
during earthquakes, the stones would simply shake and bounce off
towards each other and fall back into place afterward. This incredible
precision is the reason why the site has remained standing for
centuries.
-
Abandonment, Rediscovery, and History
It is believed that the Yanaconas lived on Machu Picchu
for over 80 years. Experts have deduced that the coming of the Spanish
Conquistadors is the reason why its inhabitants abandoned the site.
It is also believed that most of its inhabitants died of
smallpox around this time, thinning out the population even more.
After years of being an abandoned site, it would only be
introduced to the public when a local farmer introduced Machu Picchu
to explorer and university professor, Hiram Bingham. Although the
Peruvian people at the time were aware of the Incan site, the outside
world had no knowledge of Machu Picchu. Several artifacts were taken
by Bingham’s team around this time for further examination and
research. Here, they learned that the Incans were incapable of reading
and had no written language. Since then, more and more people became
aware and fell in love with the place.
In 1981, it was declared a Peruvian Historic Sanctuary,
cementing its importance in
Peruvian culture. In 1983, it was
declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, cementing its importance in
global archeology.
The beauty and cultural significance of Machu Picchu is recognized
throughout the world. Millions of people wish to see this world wonder
in person, and even fewer actually get the privilege.
Peruvian women and men take pride in
Machu Picchu and will gladly tell you more about the site, things only
locals know of. Be sure to visit the country of Peru one of these days,
and place the Machu Picchu at the top of your list of places to visit.
Experience the highest contributor to tourism in Peru for yourself.
Be more fascinated with Peru's Machu Pichu and learn.