Why Was Machu Picchu Abandoned? Simple Explanation for Kids
Discover why Machu Picchu was abandoned in the 16th century due to disease and conflict, explained in a kid-friendly way.
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Machu Picchu was likely abandoned in the 16th century due to a combination of factors. Most experts believe that the spread of diseases brought by Europeans, such as smallpox, significantly reduced the local population, making the site unsustainable. Additionally, the political upheaval and civil wars within the Inca Empire could have caused its inhabitants to leave in search of safer areas. For kids, think of it as an ancient city that became too difficult for its people to live in, prompting them to move away for their safety and well-being.
FAQs & Answers
- When was Machu Picchu abandoned? Machu Picchu was likely abandoned in the 16th century during the time of European contact and internal conflicts within the Inca Empire.
- What caused the abandonment of Machu Picchu? The abandonment is believed to be due to the spread of European diseases like smallpox and political instability from civil wars in the Inca Empire.
- Who built Machu Picchu? Machu Picchu was built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century as a royal estate and religious site.
- Was Machu Picchu known to European conquerors? No, Machu Picchu remained largely unknown to Europeans until its rediscovery in the early 20th century.