Thursday, July 22, 2010

Machu Picchu


The ancient city of Machu Picchu is a symbol of community and dedication. Machu Picchu is an incredible historical wonder located in the Andes mountains in Peru, is a small city in the Andes, about 44 miles northwest of Cuzco and about 3000 feet above the Urubamba Valley. Inca ruler Pachacuti Inca built Machu Picchu in the mid-15th century. It appears to have been a ceremonial city and astronomical observatory. The largest peak of Machu Picchu, called Huayna Picchu, is known as "hitching post of the sun."
Machu Picchu was estimated to have been built around 1462. It was constructed by skilled Incan masons at the height of the Incan Empire. Machu Picchu was estimated to have been abandoned shortly after it was built, as researchers estimate that the structures fell out of use less than 100 years after they were built.
Machu Picchu is an area of Peru that is highly susceptible to seismic activity. Thus, in constructing the main buildings of the settlement, the Incas used a construction technique called ashlar in which blocks of stone are cut perfectly.
The function of Machu Picchu is not known, but possible functions that scientists think include theories that the structure was either a prison or a residence for the ruler of the Inca. Some scientists have also theorized that Machu Picchu was a defensive building, like a secure house in which the Inca people could retreat in case of attack.
The Inca Trail links a range of stunningly preserved Inca ruins. Along the way the natural scenery is eye-catching, with views of snow capped mountains and the lush cloud forest vegetation. The building techniques of the Incas, combined with their knowledge of astronomy, agriculture and engineering, are a tribute to the sophistication of the society.

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