15 Facts About Machu Picchu: A Chronicle of the Modern Wonders of the World

Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Peru and possibly all of South America, continues to captivate the hearts of globetrotters worldwide. It stands as an enduring testament to the extraordinary engineering brilliance of the Incas and the mystical allure of ancient civilizations. As we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden wonders of this archaeological marvel, prepare to be spellbound by the untold tales of Machu Picchu!

Machu Picchu: A Relatively Modern Wonder

Contrary to what one might think, the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is not as ancient as some might believe. Scholars estimate its construction began around 1450 AD, during the reign of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. This impressive feat occurred nearly a thousand years after the fall of the Roman Empire, making it a remarkable testament to the later stages of human history.

A Stone Marvel: Mortarless Construction

The Incas were truly masterful engineers, as evident in the construction of Machu Picchu. The entire citadel was crafted without the use of any mortar. Employing the astonishing ashlar technique, the Incas cut stones with such precision that they fit seamlessly together, leaving no gaps whatsoever. It is a breathtaking achievement of engineering and architectural finesse!

Defying Nature: Earthquake-Proof Structures

Perched amidst a region known for its seismic activity, Machu Picchu is a testament to the Incas' ingenious architectural strategies. To withstand earthquakes, they crafted structures with features like trapezoidal-shaped doors and windows, inward inclining walls, and bracing blocks. This ingenious planning ensured the site's resilience against the forces of nature.

The Not-So-Lost City

Machu Picchu may have earned the title "The Lost City of the Incas" through Hiram Bingham III's exploration, but it was never truly lost. Local inhabitants knew of its existence, and even Quechua farmers continued tending to the terraces when Bingham arrived in 1911. The legend of its rediscovery only adds to the mystique surrounding this historic site.

Enigmatic Purpose: The Lost Secrets of Machu Picchu

While historians speculate that Machu Picchu was a royal estate built by the emperor Pachacuti, the absence of written records shrouds its true purpose in mystery. Some theories suggest it may have served as a retreat for esteemed religious leaders and scholars. The truth remains veiled, allowing our imaginations to wander amidst the enigmatic ruins.

"Old Mountain": A Name with a Story

Drawing from the Quechua language, the name "Machu Picchu" unveils a fascinating narrative. "Machu" translates to "old" or "old person," while "Picchu" denotes a conical-shaped solid structure or, in this context, a "mountain." Together, the name evokes a sense of ancient grandeur that continues to captivate visitors.

A Battle for Artifacts: Peru vs. Yale

The excavation of Machu Picchu in the early 20th century led to a protracted dispute between Peru and Yale University. Hiram Bingham's team collected numerous artifacts during their scientific study and sent them to Yale. However, Peru staunchly advocated for the return of these precious relics. After a century-long tussle, the artifacts finally found their way back home in 2012.

Extraterrestrial Influence? A Controversial Theory

A fringe theory proposes that Machu Picchu's awe-inspiring construction surpasses human capabilities, leading some to speculate that extraterrestrial beings must have contributed to its creation. However, archaeological evidence firmly attributes this feat to the ingenious engineering and labor of the Incas themselves, dismissing any otherworldly involvement.

Altitude Surprises: The Truth About Machu Picchu's Elevation

While travelers often worry about altitude sickness at Machu Picchu, they might be surprised to learn that the site's elevation is lower than Cusco, the popular starting point for Machu Picchu expeditions. Standing at 7,970 feet, it falls below the threshold for altitude sickness. Nevertheless, the journey to this iconic site commences in Cusco, where adventurers acclimate before venturing forth.

A Verdant Cloud Forest Oasis

Machu Picchu's unique location on the cusp of the Andes and the Amazon rainforest creates a remarkable microclimate. Unlike the dry mountains of Cusco, the site is lush and enveloped in mist and clouds. Its misty allure nurtures a rich variety of subtropical flora and fauna, welcoming travelers to an ethereal realm.

Llamas: A Tourism Tradition

As much as we adore snapping selfies with the adorable llamas at Machu Picchu, it's intriguing to discover that they are not native to the region. Llamas, along with their alpaca companions, were introduced by the Incas themselves. These furry friends prefer altitudes above 13,000 feet, and their presence today is a testament to the enduring charm of Andean culture.

A Worldly Recognition

Machu Picchu's splendor transcends national borders. The Peruvian government designated it a Historic Sanctuary in 1981, and in 1983, UNESCO bestowed the prestigious title of World Heritage Site upon it. Moreover, in 2007, a global poll crowned Machu Picchu as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, solidifying its place in human hearts worldwide.

Silent Skies: No Helicopters Allowed

In a bid to preserve the fragile ecosystem and natural tranquility surrounding Machu Picchu, helicopter flyovers were once permitted in the 1990s. However, the environmental impact soon became evident, prompting the Peruvian government to enforce a strict no-fly zone. Today, the serenity of the ancient ruins remains unspoiled, allowing visitors to relish the enchanting silence.

Paths Less Traveled: Journeys to Machu Picchu

Nestled within the cloud forest's mountainous embrace, Machu Picchu is accessible only through two distinct routes. The first is the well-trodden path via a train from Cusco, transporting travelers to Aguas Calientes at the mountain's base. From there, one can either hike or take a bus to reach the site. Alternatively, the adventurous souls can embark on the famed Inca Trail, reliving the footsteps of history.

The Gateway of the Sun

As modern-day visitors stream through turnstiles, it's intriguing to note that the Incas used the "Sun Gate" or Inti Punku as their primary entrance. This celestial gateway held profound religious significance, with the sun aligning perfectly with it during the summer solstice. Stepping through this historic portal, one can't help but feel the echoes of ancient rituals resonating through time.

As we conclude our exploration of the 15 hidden wonders of Machu Picchu, we can only marvel at the ingenuity of the Incas, whose legacy stands tall amidst the mist-shrouded peaks. The enigmatic allure of this archaeological gem continues to beckon travelers from all corners of the globe, inviting them to uncover the mysteries that lie within its ancient walls.

Have you watched the sun rise at Machu Picchu? Have you walked up the trails to the peak? Well now it's time to frame those memories with Studio 324's travel print!

Don't forget to check out this amazing video by National Geographic on Machu Picchu!

Don't forget to check out our other blog posts chronicling the modern wonders of the world! But before you do, don't forget to take this fun poll below!