This abandoned ancient city lies on the peak of a mountain ridge in Peru, situated 2430 metres above sea level. Its high elevation makes the city seem like it is going to reach the clouds. This newly voted Seven Wonders of the World is often known as ‘The Lost City of Incas’, which serves an important cultural site and a extremely scared place. This is Machu Picchu, which literally means ‘Old Peak’.
The city was built in 1462, at the peak of the prospering Inca Empire. However it was abandoned less than 100 years later, probably due to a contagious disease that wiped out its population. Hence it was forgotten for centuries until an American historian rediscovered it and brought this sacred site to worldwide attention in 1911. The ruins have been declared as a World Heritage Site in 1983.
Since its discovery, the site quickly became a popular tourist attraction and is the most visited attraction and a major revenue source for Peru today. Due to the intrusion of tourists and frequent human activities, the site has been gradually degrading, and therefore it is classified as one of the endangered sites in the world.
Machu Picchu lies on a strategic location. Being situated between two mountains, having a good view of the valleys below and an almost impassable mountain at its back, makes the city easily defendable. Its difficult access and steep slopes discourage invaders from attacking the city.
The structures are mainly built with stones, but how the Incas managed to transport the stones up still remains a mystery. The architecture was such that the structures would not collapse easily during an earthquake. The slopes leading towards the city were terraced to provide more farmland to grow crops.
Unfortunately, Machu Picchu’s popularity has resulted itself in being constantly threatened by commercial modifications to stimulate greater tourism. There were once plans to construct a tourist complex, luxury hotel and cable car in its vicinity, but they met with violent protests. Helicopter flights for tourists into the ruins were even suggested. Above the area now exists a no-fly zone, where aircrafts are strictly forbidden.
The view from the peak looks really spectacular! It does feel like you are reaching the skies and looking down onto the vast terrain of nature. The air is cool and fresh up there and its tranquility away from urbanization is something many will yearn for. I hope this site will continue to be preserved in its natural beauty.
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