Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash (@willianjusten)
Machu Picchu
Cusco
Machu Picchu is an iconic 15th-century Inca citadel located on a mountain ridge in southern Peru at an altitude of 2,430 meters. Often called the "Lost City of the Incas," it was likely built around 1450 as a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. The site features classic Inca dry-stone construction with notable structures such as the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana ritual stone. It sits between two peaks, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, overlooking the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River canyon. Abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest, it remained largely unknown internationally until rediscovered by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually. Its blend of architectural mastery, spiritual significance, and stunning natural setting make it a unique cultural treasure and a must-visit destination in Peru.
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Astuce: To fully appreciate Machu Picchu, visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Tickets should be purchased in advance due to daily visitor limits. Consider guided tours to gain historical insights. The site is best visited during the dry season from May to September. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Wear sturdy footwear and bring sun protection and water.
Faits intéressants
- •Machu Picchu is often called the "Lost City of the Incas" because it was unknown to the outside world until 1911.
- •The site includes the Intihuatana stone, believed to be an astronomical clock or calendar used by the Incas.
- •Machu Picchu sits at 2,430 meters above sea level, between two mountain peaks named Machu Picchu ('old peak') and Huayna Picchu ('young peak').
- •It was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 following a global vote.
- •The construction technique involves finely crafted dry-stone walls without mortar, showcasing Inca engineering skills.
Histoire
Machu Picchu was constructed in the mid-15th century, likely commissioned by Emperor Pachacuti following his territorial expansions.
Radiocarbon dating places its occupation between approximately 1420 and 1530.
It served as a royal estate and possibly a religious sanctuary but was abandoned about a century later, likely due to the disruptions caused by the Spanish conquest and epidemics such as smallpox.
The site remained relatively unknown to the outside world until the early 20th century when American explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911.
Since then, Machu Picchu has undergone restoration and was declared a National Historic Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Guide du lieu
Temple of the Sun15th century
A semicircular temple built around a large rock, believed to have been used for astronomical observations and religious ceremonies dedicated to the sun god Inti.
Temple of the Three Windows15th century
This temple features three large trapezoidal windows that frame views of the surrounding mountains and are thought to symbolize the three realms of Inca mythology: the underworld, the earthly world, and the heavens.
Intihuatana Stone15th century
A ritual stone carved to serve as an astronomical clock or calendar, used to mark solstices and other celestial events important to the Inca calendar and agriculture.
Contact
Téléphone: (084) 582030