Machu PIcchu

Machu Picchu

One of the seven wonders of the world, one of the most famous archaeological sights in South America. Machu Picchu is probably one of the greatest examples of Imperial style with a complete harmony for the geography. The picture shown below is a stone that was carved to mimic the mountain range behind it. It is estimated to have been built around 1450 AD.

Carved Rock in Machu Picchu

When Hiram Bingham brought Machu Picchu to attention around 1915 there were many theories that he proposed at to what Machu Picchu was used or built for. His main three theories were:

1) A place for the Chosen women or Sun Virgins to be trained for priestesses or brides for significant people.

2) Birthplace of the Incas

3) Historic town of Vilcambamba

Sadly as time went on and more researchers weighed in and looked at the evidence from not only the collection that Hiram Bingham collection, but at remains and likelihood of these theories became improbable. Currently archaeologists and researchers believe the Machu Picchu was a royal estate, that there was very little farming done despite the terraces surrounding it. It apparently was a place for drinking chicha (corn beer), there has been many vessels found for liquids. Dice have also been recovered and this suggests gaming, while metal balls that would have been sewn to clothes suggest dancing. This was a place relaxation and enjoyment - after its initial construction. 177 remains were found in graves around Machu Picchu, when examined there was a rich diet of corn which is considered a high status crop. This is an example of what indicates a royal estate. It is estimated that 750 people resided here, with few craftsmen among them. 

Machu Picchu looks to have been abandoned when the Spanish came, mostly because the city relied so heavily with the connection to Cuzco so when the Spaniards came and broke off that main connection inhabitants took there belongings and found new homes. 

Machu Picchu is home to some of the most iconic symbols of Incan architecture, with trapezoid windows, ingenious irrigation, use of natural rock formation and double jamed doorways. 

View from Machu Picchu