Machu Picchu 101 | National Geographic en Español
The Stone City of Machu Picchu
This section provides an introduction to the historical significance and engineering feats of Machu Picchu, an archaeological site in Peru.
Introduction to Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu is a stone city located northwest of Cusco, Peru.
- It is considered one of the most fascinating archaeological sites on the planet.
- Built by the Inca civilization around the mid 15th century, it showcases their power and ingenuity.
- The Inca civilization stretched about 2,500 miles along South America's Pacific coastline.
Engineering Feats of Machu Picchu
- The Inca constructed Machu Picchu using stone without the use of wheels or tools made of steel or iron.
- They did not use mortar to bind stones together but cut them precisely to fit snugly.
- Despite being located on two fault lines and experiencing earthquakes, the stones bounce during tremors and fall back into position due to their exceptional cut and fit.
- These engineering marvels have preserved Machu Picchu in remarkable condition for over 500 years.
Mysteries Surrounding Machu Picchu
This section explores some theories about the purpose and significance of Machu Picchu, as well as its discovery by outsiders.
Purpose and Significance
- The exact purpose of Machu Picchu remains a mystery to many archaeologists.
- Some theories suggest it may have served as a ceremonial site, military stronghold, or retreat for nobility.
- The geographic layout of the site indicates alignments with astronomical events.
Discovery by Outsiders
- Despite local communities being aware of Machu Picchu, it remained largely unknown to the outside world for hundreds of years.
- Spanish conquistadors who invaded the Inca civilization in the 16th century never came across the site.
- It wasn't until the early 20th century that a local farmer named Melchor Arteaga led Yale University professor Hiram Bingham to the site, debuting Machu Picchu to outsiders.
- Bingham and successive explorers dedicated their academic careers to studying this archaeological wonder.
The Importance of Machu Picchu
This section highlights the significance of Machu Picchu as one of the world's most important archaeological sites.
- Despite its enigmatic nature, Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the power and ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
- It is considered one of the largest empires in the Americas.
- In 1983, UNESCO designated Machu Picchu as a World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.