What is the History of Machu Picchu? Discover the Inca Citadel's Origins
Explore the fascinating history of Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Inca citadel built by Emperor Pachacuti, and learn why it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru on a 2,430-meter (7,970 ft) mountain ridge. It is believed to have been constructed as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472). Abandoned around a century later at the time of the Spanish Conquest, although not found by the Spanish, it remained unknown to the outside world until being introduced to international attention by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911. Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
FAQs & Answers
- When was Machu Picchu built? Machu Picchu was constructed in the 15th century during the reign of Inca emperor Pachacuti, around 1438 to 1472.
- Who discovered Machu Picchu? Machu Picchu was brought to international attention by the archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911.
- Why is Machu Picchu important? Machu Picchu is an important archaeological site representing the Inca Empire and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Was Machu Picchu conquered by the Spanish? Machu Picchu was abandoned around the time of the Spanish Conquest and was not discovered or conquered by the Spanish.