Machu Picchu

Definition

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, renowned for its archaeological significance and stunning architecture. Often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas,' it exemplifies the connection between sacred spaces and the natural environment, highlighting the ecological significance of high-altitude ecosystems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machu Picchu was built around 1450 during the height of the Inca Empire and is believed to have been a royal estate or religious site.
2. The site is situated at approximately 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, showcasing the Incas' impressive engineering skills and their adaptation to the challenging Andean environment.
3. Machu Picchu was rediscovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, which sparked global interest and led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
4. The intricate stone construction of Machu Picchu utilized a technique known as ashlar, where stones were cut to fit together tightly without mortar, ensuring durability against seismic activity.
5. Machu Picchu serves as an important cultural symbol for Peru and plays a significant role in promoting tourism, raising awareness about indigenous cultures and environmental conservation efforts.

Review Questions

• How does Machu Picchu exemplify the connection between sacred spaces and their surrounding ecosystems?
  • Machu Picchu exemplifies this connection through its location and design, harmoniously integrating with its natural surroundings in the Andes. The site was strategically built to reflect Incan cosmology, aligning with astronomical events while utilizing local resources sustainably. This highlights how sacred sites like Machu Picchu serve not only as cultural symbols but also as vital components of their ecosystems.
• Discuss the agricultural practices employed by the Incas at Machu Picchu and their ecological significance.
  • The Incas employed advanced agricultural techniques at Machu Picchu, notably terracing, which allowed them to cultivate crops on steep mountain slopes while preventing soil erosion. This practice maximized arable land in challenging terrains and demonstrated a deep understanding of sustainable farming. The terraces also contributed to maintaining biodiversity by allowing different crops to thrive in microclimates created by the elevation changes.
• Evaluate the impact of modern tourism on Machu Picchu and how it relates to preservation efforts for sacred sites and their environments.
  • Modern tourism has significantly impacted Machu Picchu, drawing millions of visitors each year while also posing challenges to its preservation. The influx of tourists can lead to environmental degradation and wear on ancient structures. This situation underscores the importance of balancing cultural heritage conservation with sustainable tourism practices, emphasizing the need for management strategies that protect both sacred sites like Machu Picchu and their surrounding ecosystems for future generations.

Related terms

Inca Empire: A vast empire in South America that flourished from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, known for its advanced engineering, agriculture, and unique cultural practices.

Andean Ecosystem: The diverse ecological zones found in the Andes Mountains, which support a variety of flora and fauna, and play a critical role in the sustainability of indigenous communities.

Terracing: An agricultural practice used by the Incas that involves creating stepped fields on sloped land to prevent soil erosion and maximize arable land in mountainous regions.