Essay On Machu Picchu (Structure/Outline)
- Introduction
- History and Discovery Of Machu Picchu
- construction of Machu Picchu
- Geography of Machu Picchu
- Culture of Machu Picchu
- Economical Importance of Machu Picchu
- Layout and Important Sites in Machu Picchu
- Facts about Machu Picchu
- Myth Associated with Machu Picchu
- FAQ’s
Introduction
Machu Picchu is a pre-Columbian Inca city situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley in Peru. It is located 80 km northwest of Cusco and through which the Urubamba River flows. The site is at an elevation of more than 2,400 meters (7,900 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by lush green mountains that overlook the deep gorge of the Urubamba River below. Machu Picchu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in South America.
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History and Discovery Of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu was built around 1450 AD by the Inca emperor Pachacuti. It is believed to have been used as a sacred and ceremonial site, as well as an agricultural estate and spiritual retreat.
The existence of Machu Picchu was not known to the outside world until 1911 when it was discovered by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer. However, the local people living in the region were aware of its existence and frequently mentioned it in their stories.
Construction Of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu was built using a distinctive style of construction known as Inca stone masonry, which involved precise blocks of stone that fit perfectly together without the use of mortar or anything else to hold them in place.
It is believed that the blocks were shaped and moved into place using a process known as ‘dry-stacking’. This technique allowed the builders to move huge stones with little effort and construct buildings with great precision.
Geography Of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is located in an area of Peru known as the Sacred Valley, just northwest of the capital city of Cusco. The region is known for its high altitude, with Machu Picchu itself being located at an elevation of 2,430 meters (7,970 ft) above sea level. This means that the climate in the area is much cooler than in other parts of Peru and can be quite chilly even during the summer months.
Culture Of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an important part of Inca culture and history, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many Peruvians. It is believed to be a sacred site that was used for spiritual rituals, ceremonies, and meditation by the Incas.
The city itself consists of several structures, including terraces, temples, and plazas. It is thought that the city was used as an agricultural estate and a spiritual retreat by the Inca people.
Economical Importance Of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an important source of income for Peru, both through tourism and the sale of souvenirs. It is estimated that more than one million people visit the site each year and that the revenue generated by tourism contributes significantly to the local economy. The Peruvian government has also invested heavily in infrastructure such as roads, hotels, and restaurants to accommodate tourists.
Layout and Important Sites In Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu consists of several buildings, divided into three main sections: the upper part, which includes temples and plazas; the lower part, which consists of terraces and agricultural areas; and the middle section, which is where most of the buildings are located. The city also features several important sites such as Intihuatana, a large ceremonial stone; Huayna Picchu, a mountain peak; and the Sun Gate, which offers spectacular views of the city.
Machu Picchu is an awe-inspiring archaeological site that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient Inca civilization. Its dramatic landscape and mysterious ruins are sure to leave any visitor with a sense of wonder and admiration. As such, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America and a must-see for any traveler to Peru.
Facts about Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu is Peru’s most famous archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- More than one million people visit Machu Picchu each year.
- The revenue generated by tourism contributes significantly to the local economy.
- Important sites in Machu Picchu include Intihuatana, Huayna
- It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America and a must-see for any traveler to Peru.
- The site is believed to be a sacred place used for spiritual rituals, ceremonies, and meditation by the Incas.
- Machu Picchu is an important symbol of Peru’s cultural heritage and history.
- The city has been declared a National Historical Sanctuary by the Peruvian government.
- Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- In 2007, Machu Picchu was voted one of the World’s Greatest Places by National Geographic.
- The climate in Machu Picchu is much cooler than in other parts of Peru and can be quite chilly even during the summer months.
Myth Associated with Machu Picchu
The Incas believed that Machu Picchu was a gateway to the gods and was thought to be filled with spiritual energy. Legends state that when the site was discovered by Hiram Bingham, it was still inhabited by mysterious people who were “descendants of the sun.”
It is said that these people had been living in secret for centuries in the hidden city. The mysterious people are rumored to have vanished after Bingham’s discovery, leaving behind only a few artifacts and a mystery for archaeologists to discover.
Machu Picchu is truly a mythical place that holds many wonders within its walls. Its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance will continue to captivate visitors from around the world for years to come.
FAQ’s
What is Machu Picchu famous for?
Machu Picchu is a famous archaeological site located in Peru that is renowned for its Incan architecture and stunning landscape. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Why is Machu Picchu a mystery?
The exact purpose of Machu Picchu is still a mystery. It is believed to have been used for spiritual rituals, ceremonies, and meditation by the Incas. It is also rumored to have been inhabited by mysterious people who were “descendants of the sun” until Hiram Bingham discovered it in 1911.
How did Machu Picchu end?
Machu Picchu has not ended, but it is believed that the city was abandoned in the 16th century due to a combination of natural disasters and disease. However, its ruins remain intact today, allowing visitors to explore and learn about the site’s history.
What is the real name of Machu Picchu?
The real name of Machu Picchu is Old Peak. It was given this name by Hiram Bingham, who rediscovered the site in 1911.
Why is Machu Picchu called the Lost city?
Machu Picchu is referred to as the Lost City because it was hidden from the outside world for centuries. It was only rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, who stumbled across the site while searching for another lost city – Vilcabamba.
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