Machu Picchu

Definition

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas.' This iconic site is a remarkable example of Pre-Columbian architecture and engineering, showcasing advanced agricultural practices, sophisticated water management systems, and an intricate network of roads that connected it to other regions. Its significance extends beyond its stunning ruins; Machu Picchu serves as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural richness of the Incan civilization in pre-Columbian times.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti and served as a royal estate and religious site.
2. The city is located at an altitude of about 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, making it an impressive feat of engineering considering the challenging terrain.
3. The site features advanced agricultural terraces that allowed for efficient farming practices, which were crucial for sustaining the population living there.
4. Machu Picchu was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, leading to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
5. The intricate stone construction of Machu Picchu, without the use of mortar, exemplifies the remarkable architectural skills of the Incas and their ability to adapt to seismic activity.

Review Questions

• How did Machu Picchu reflect the agricultural innovations of the Inca Empire?
  • Machu Picchu showcases several agricultural innovations that were vital to the Inca Empire's success. The terraced farming system allowed the Incas to cultivate crops efficiently on steep mountainous terrain. This not only maximized arable land but also improved water management, essential for crop growth. The presence of these terraces demonstrates how the Incas adapted their agricultural techniques to suit their environment, ensuring food security for their population.
• Discuss the significance of Machu Picchu in terms of its architectural design and construction techniques used by the Incas.
  • Machu Picchu is significant for its advanced architectural design, characterized by precisely cut stones that fit together without mortar, showcasing exceptional masonry skills. The buildings were designed with consideration for their natural surroundings, incorporating features that facilitated drainage and structural stability against earthquakes. This impressive construction reflects not only aesthetic principles but also practical engineering solutions that highlight the Incas' understanding of their environment.
• Evaluate how the discovery and subsequent recognition of Machu Picchu influenced perceptions of Incan culture and history in modern times.
  • The rediscovery of Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham significantly shaped modern perceptions of Incan culture and history. Initially viewed as a 'lost' civilization, the site's recognition brought attention to the sophistication and achievements of the Incas, countering previous narratives that overlooked indigenous contributions to history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu has become a symbol of cultural pride for Peru and has sparked global interest in ancient Andean civilizations, leading to a greater appreciation for their historical significance.

Related terms

Inca Empire: The largest empire in pre-Columbian America, known for its vast territory across western South America and sophisticated administrative and agricultural systems.

Terrace Farming: An agricultural technique used by the Incas that involved creating stepped terraces on mountainsides to maximize arable land and manage water drainage.

Quechua: The indigenous people of the Andes who were integral to the Inca Empire and continue to maintain their cultural heritage today.