Oman today_ Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city built in the 15th century, located at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains of Peru. This historical site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
History:
Machu Picchu was constructed during the Inca Empire and was likely used as a royal retreat or a religious center. The city was abandoned in the 16th century after the Spanish invasion and remained unknown until 1911 when American archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered it.
Structure and Features:
Machu Picchu includes temples, houses, stairways, and agricultural terraces, all meticulously constructed with advanced engineering skills. The stone structures, built without mortar, were designed to be earthquake-resistant.
Access:
To reach Machu Picchu, there is a route known as the “Inca Trail,” a multi-day hike. Alternatively, one can take a train from the town of Aguas Calientes to the “Aguas Calientes” station and then reach the site by bus or on foot.
Cultural and Tourism Significance:
Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The site holds immense historical and cultural importance and is regarded as a symbol of the Inca civilization and their engineering achievements.