History
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located high in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru. It was built in the 15th century during the reign of the Incan emperor Pachacuti and is believed to have served as a royal estate or ceremonial center. The city sits about 7,970 feet above sea level and includes temples, terraces, plazas, and residential areas carefully constructed from large stones fitted together without mortar.
After the Spanish arrived in the region during the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in the 1500s, the site was abandoned and remained largely unknown to the outside world. It was brought to international attention in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham III. Today, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a New7Wonders of the World site.
Visiting Machu Picchu requires adhering to strict preservation rules: stay on marked paths, do not touch or climb the ruins, and carry out all trash. Prohibited items include drones, tripods, selfie sticks, large bags, umbrellas, and walking sticks (unless rubber-tipped). Keep voices low, wear soft-soled shoes, and do not bring food or engage in loud, disruptive, or disrespectful behavior.
