Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, which means “Old Mountain” is the Inca citadel built by the Inca Pachacutec. 

This architectural masterpiece is located to the northeast of Cusco, and was found intact in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Later, it was declared World Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

The citadel built with gigantic stones joined together, is divided into 2 large areas. The agricultural one, formed by terraces and food storage facilities. The urban one, where the sacred zone with temples and royal mausoleums stands out.  

So if you travel to Peru, you can’t miss Machu Picchu! Explore the majestic city of the Incas!

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Top tourist attractions

  • Main Gate of the City: This gate was very well protected and only the people from its population were allowed to enter. 
  • Temple of the Sun: Semi-circular structure built on solid rock. This building was inlaid with precious stones and gold.
  • Intiwatana: It is located at the top of the “Sacred Hill” and composed by several terraces. 
  • Ceremonial Fountains: Between the Temple of the Sun and the Royal Palace is the "Stairway of Fountains". 
  • The Main Temple: It is located to the north of the Sacred Plaza. It is 11 m. long and 8 m. wide. 
  • Royal Mausoleo: It is a huge rock inclined to support part of the Temple of the Sun. 
  • Palace of the Ñusta: Located within the Temple of the Sun. This building is known as the Cloister of the Ñusta (princess).
  • Sacred Plaza: It is located at the northeast and the feet of the Intiwatana. 
  • Temple of the Three Windows: It is built with only 3 walls and an adobe roof. Its stones are polygonal.
  • Dry Moat: It was used to protect the Citadel of Machu Picchu. It was a security component in wartime.
  • Prisons: In this place there were pumas and snakes, used to punish prisoners.
  • Industrial Sector: For having a double wooden door, this was apparently a very special place.
  • Neighborhood of the three doors: These constructions, apparently, were only used as storage.
  • The Sacred Rock: It is in a quadrangular building with two contiguous rooms. It has a feline shape.
  • Superior and Inferior Cementeries: Deceased inhabitants of Machu Picchu were buried as mummies.