MACHU PICCHU HISTORY JOURNEY
The empire of the Incas, established in Cusco around 1,200 AD, finds its roots in legendary tales—Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, as well as the Ayar Brothers. Both stories converge on Manco Cápac as the founder of the empire. Pachacútec’s era marked the empire’s zenith, covering almost 2 million km², coinciding with the construction of the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
The arrival of Spanish conquerors led to the empire’s fall, and Machu Picchu, still incomplete, was abandoned. Some argue that the Spaniards were aware of its existence, but it remained hidden until its discovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, sponsored by Yale University, the National Geographic Society, and the Peruvian government.
Machu Picchu emerged as a premier tourist destination, earning UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation. It was also chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Inca Times:
Before Machu Picchu, nearby towns like Vilcabamba and the Sacred Valley thrived. Inca power expansion absorbed these regions into the growing Tahuantinsuyo Empire. Machu Picchu’s history began in the mid-15th century under Emperor Pachacútec, transforming from a manor to a magnificent empire.
Threatened during Wiracocha’s rule by western neighbors, the Chancas, the Inca Wiracocha and his heir fled. Cusi Yupanqui, Wiracocha’s son, defeated the Chancas, securing recognition as the empire’s successor. Pachacútec Yupanqui Cápac Intichuri, meaning “Son of the Sun,” initiated an era of prosperity, allowing the construction of magnificent works, with Machu Picchu as the pinnacle.
Why Pachacútec Chose Machu Picchu:
Pachacútec’s decision to build in this lush, mountainous environment served as a checkpoint for the rapidly growing empire. It provided access to essential jungle products like coca, reflecting Pachacútec’s admiration for the region’s natural beauty and sacred mountains.
Purpose of Machu Picchu:
Initial beliefs of Machu Picchu as a military fortress or Pachacútec’s rest home lost credibility over time. Comprehensive studies suggest its use as a religious sanctuary or a monastery, preparing girls for Inca service. The city housed 300 to 1000 inhabitants, with the workforce formed by the dominated people, mitimaes, from various empire regions.
Rediscovery:
Hiram Bingham is often credited with the discovery, yet sources claim Agustín Lizárraga arrived nine years earlier. Lizárraga left an inscription on the Temple of the Three Windows. Bingham’s expedition in 1911, guided by a local child, marked the beginning of Machu Picchu’s modern exploration. The subsequent studies between 1912 and 1915 revealed the city’s intricate structures.
Machu Picchu’s growth into a significant archaeological site garnered international attention. It was declared a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 1983 and named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World on July 7, 2007.
Sanctuary History of Machu Picchu:
Covering 37,302 hectares, the SHM-PANM, a UNESCO-listed natural and cultural area, hosts over 60 archaeological sites connected by a complex Inka road network. Since the 1930s, the Peruvian government has promoted research, conservation, and sustainable tourism in this biodiverse region.
Biodiversity:
The SHM-PANM is one of Peru’s most biodiverse areas, boasting 24 Andean and Amazonian ecosystems. From humid montane forests to peaks exceeding 6000 masl, the area provides ideal habitats for diverse wildlife.
Inca City of Machupicchu:
The most significant archaeological site within Santurary History of Machu Picchu is the Inca city of Machu Picchu, planned and built around 1400 CE. Serving as a masterpiece of art, architecture, and engineering, it represents the well-known legacy of the Inka civilization. Abandoned in the 16th century, it was occasionally visited and inhabited by local farmers.
Inca Road Network:
Part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca Trail comprises 42 sections, covering approximately 300 km. Reflecting the elevated technological prowess of Andean civilizations, it played a crucial role in connecting archaeological monuments.