Machu Picchu

Definition

Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, built in the 15th century and later abandoned during the Spanish Conquest. It serves as a significant symbol of Inca civilization and showcases advanced agricultural, architectural, and engineering techniques. This site became well-known globally due to its discovery in the early 20th century and has since been a focal point for discussions about the Spanish conquest, archaeological research, and metallurgical practices of the Inca people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machu Picchu is often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas' because it remained largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911.
2. The site includes impressive structures such as temples, terraces, and residential areas, all built with precise stone masonry that reflects the advanced engineering skills of the Incas.
3. Machu Picchu was built at an altitude of about 2,430 meters (7,970 feet), showcasing the Inca's ability to adapt to challenging mountainous terrain.
4. The significance of Machu Picchu goes beyond its architectural brilliance; it also holds great cultural importance and is considered a sacred site by many indigenous people today.
5. Machu Picchu has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, recognizing its historical significance and its role in understanding Inca civilization.

Review Questions

• How does Machu Picchu illustrate the architectural and engineering achievements of the Inca civilization?
  • Machu Picchu exemplifies Inca architectural brilliance through its sophisticated use of stone construction techniques, such as precisely cut stones that fit together without mortar. The site features terracing for agriculture, effective water management systems including aqueducts and drainage channels, and buildings designed to withstand seismic activity. These features not only reflect advanced engineering skills but also demonstrate the Incas' deep understanding of their environment.
• Discuss the impact of Francisco Pizarro's conquests on sites like Machu Picchu and their relevance to our understanding of Inca history.
  • Francisco Pizarro's conquests led to the decline of the Inca Empire and the abandonment of many sites, including Machu Picchu. While it escaped immediate destruction, Machu Picchu remained hidden from Spanish colonizers, preserving much of its structure. This allows modern archaeologists to study it as an intact representation of Inca culture and societal organization during a tumultuous period in history. The contrast between Pizarro's destructive campaigns and the preservation at Machu Picchu provides insights into how indigenous cultures responded to external threats.
• Evaluate how archaeological studies at Machu Picchu contribute to our understanding of Inca metallurgical practices.
  • Archaeological research at Machu Picchu has revealed evidence of metallurgical practices integral to Inca society, including the production of tools and decorative items from various metals. Findings suggest that metallurgy was closely linked to agriculture, trade, and social status within Inca communities. By analyzing artifacts and their contexts at Machu Picchu, researchers can better understand how these practices influenced daily life and contributed to the empire's economic structure. This exploration enhances our broader comprehension of technological advancements among pre-Columbian civilizations.

Related terms

Inca Trail: A network of ancient paths leading to Machu Picchu, used by the Incas for trade and religious purposes, now popular with hikers.

Terracing: An agricultural technique used by the Incas that involves creating stepped platforms on slopes to improve farming efficiency and prevent soil erosion.

Cusco: The historic capital of the Inca Empire, which served as a political, military, and cultural hub before the Spanish conquest.