Machu Picchu

Definition

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and breathtaking panoramic views. Often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas', it exemplifies the remarkable architectural achievements of the Inca civilization and has significant cultural and historical importance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century during the reign of Inca emperor Pachacuti and is thought to have served as a royal estate or religious site.
2. The site showcases incredible engineering, with structures such as temples, terraces, and agricultural fields designed to withstand earthquakes.
3. Machu Picchu was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, bringing global attention to Incan civilization.
4. The city is divided into two main areas: the agricultural sector with terraced fields and the urban sector with temples and residential buildings.
5. Machu Picchu was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is often considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Review Questions

• How does Machu Picchu reflect the engineering capabilities of the Inca civilization?
  • Machu Picchu illustrates the advanced engineering skills of the Inca civilization through its intricate dry-stone construction techniques, which allowed buildings to remain stable during seismic activity. The site features precisely fitted stones that do not require mortar, showcasing their knowledge of geology and structural integrity. Additionally, the use of terraces for agriculture demonstrates their ability to adapt to challenging mountainous terrain and maximize agricultural output.
• Discuss the significance of Machu Picchu's location in relation to its function within Incan society.
  • The strategic location of Machu Picchu high in the Andes Mountains provided both defensive advantages and proximity to important agricultural areas. This elevated position also offered breathtaking views that may have had spiritual significance. The site is believed to have functioned not only as a royal estate but also as a religious center, reflecting its importance in Incan society as a place for governance, spirituality, and connection to nature.
• Evaluate how Machu Picchu has influenced modern understandings of Incan culture and architecture.
  • Machu Picchu has significantly shaped contemporary perceptions of Incan culture and architecture by serving as a symbol of their ingenuity and connection to nature. As one of the best-preserved examples of Incan engineering, it challenges stereotypes about pre-Columbian societies being primitive. The site's discovery has sparked interest in other Incan sites, leading to further archaeological research that enhances our understanding of their sophisticated social structures, agricultural practices, and religious beliefs.

Related terms

Inca Empire: A vast empire that existed in South America from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, known for its advanced engineering, agriculture, and extensive road systems.

Terracing: An agricultural practice used by the Incas to create flat areas on steep mountainsides, allowing for effective farming and preventing soil erosion.

Intihuatana: A ritual stone associated with astronomy in Incan culture, often referred to as a 'hitching post for the sun', believed to have been used in religious ceremonies.