The name Machu Picchu, which means “Old Peak,” denotes a magnificent record of space, time, and history. The fortress, a magnificent example of prehistoric building, is perched nearly naturally high on the Andes’ peaks and slopes. Although Machu Picchu is a unique sight in and of itself, we urge tourists to also take in and assist the local people around. During one of our journeys to Peru, you may see these settlements for yourself. To give you a better understanding of Machu Picchu’s historical significance, below is a quick overview of its history.

Thought to have been erected for Inca Emperor Pachacuti, the precise date of Machu Picchu’s construction in this century is unknown. The construction of the citadel by the Inca civilization is thought to have occurred somewhere in the middle of the 15th century, however more recent study puts the date closer to 1420–1530. We do know that the Inca’s brilliant engineering is what gave rise to the metropolis. Without the aid of horses, wheels, or any other high-tech machinery, Machu Picchu was built. The stones that make up Machu Picchu were carved to fit together flawlessly. In the event of an earthquake, this gets the building ready. The stones won’t even quake before they reposition themselves.

Getty Images/ Moment/ Craig Hastings

Local towns have long known about Machu Picchu’s existence, but a Peruvian farmer first made the fortress known to the outside world in 1911. Hiram Bingham, a Yale lecturer, was first looking for the Inca Capital and enquired about surrounding ruins in the Cusco area. A team of Yale University excavators was directed to the site by local farmer Melchor Arteaga, and as a result, its greater significance was uncovered.

The World Heritage Organization recognised Machu Picchu’s groundbreaking technical and artistic talent by the Inca Civilization in 1983. The building is indeed creative, but what really draws tourists in is how it combines culture, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and architectural genius. While dense clouds pass behind the intricate Machu Picchu building, llamas wander the steep slope. The arrangement of man-made elements and world-renowned natural treasures at Machu Picchu is remarkable.