Machu Picchu (Peru)
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city located high in the Peruvian Andes. It was built in the 15th century and was occupied by the Incas for about 100 years before being abandoned. Machu Picchu is widely regarded as one of the most famous architectural achievements of the Inca Empire. In this blog, we delve into the architectural history of Machu Picchu, exploring the unique features that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
Location and Layout
Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco region of Peru, about 50 miles northwest of the city of Cusco. It sits on a ridge at 7,970 feet above sea level, overlooking the Urubamba Valley. The site covers an area of 32,592 hectares and is divided into two main areas: the agricultural area and the urban area. The agricultural area includes the terraced fields used for farming, while the urban area includes the residential and administrative buildings of the city.
Construction and Materials
The Inca construction techniques used at Machu Picchu are a testament to the advanced engineering knowledge of the Incas. The city was built with polished dry stone walls that fit perfectly together without the need for mortar. The stone used to build the city was brought from nearby quarries and shaped with hand tools. The precision and stability of the dry stone walls have allowed Machu Picchu to survive centuries of earthquakes and extreme weather conditions.
Architectural Features
One of Machu Picchu's most distinctive features is the Intihuatana Stone. It is a carved stone pillar used to measure the movement of the sun and stars. The Incas believed the sun was a god and the Intihuatana stone was a sacred object that held the sun in place. Other notable architectural features of Machu Picchu are the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the House of the Three Doors.
Influence and Legacy
Machu Picchu is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Inca Empire. The site's advanced construction techniques, advanced water management systems, and unique architectural features have inspired architects and engineers for centuries. Today, Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's legacy lives on as a symbol of the Incas' incredible engineering and architectural achievements.
Conclusion
Machu Picchu is an outstanding example of the advanced engineering and construction skills of the Incas. Its impressive dry stone walls, intricate water management system, and unique architectural features make it a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Inca Empire. The legacy of Machu Picchu lives on as a symbol of the incredible achievement of the Incas and continues to inspire architects, engineers and tourists from around the world.
