Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. This ancient Inca city, located in Peru, was built at an altitude of 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level. The question is, why was Machu Picchu on a mountain in the first place? Let’s delve into the history and geography of the region to find out.
The Incas were known for their engineering prowess and architectural marvels, and Machu Picchu is a prime example of their expertise. The site’s location on a mountain was not by chance, but a strategic decision. The mountain offered several advantages to the Incas.
The mountain provided natural protection. It was an easily defensible location, as the steep cliffs surrounding the city made it difficult for invaders to attack. This was important to the Incas, as they were constantly at war with neighboring civilizations. Therefore, they needed a secure place to house their leaders and nobility.
Additionally, the mountain’s height provided a natural lookout point. From the top of Machu Picchu, the Incas had a clear view of the surrounding valleys. Thus, it allowed them to monitor any approaching threats. The mountain’s elevation also allowed for better communication through the use of smoke signals.
Also, the mountain had a great spiritual significance to the Incas. They believed that mountains were sacred and served as a link between the heavens and the earth. Huayna Picchu, in particular, was considered a sacred mountain. The Incas believed that the spirits of their ancestors resided there. Building Machu Picchu on the mountain was a way for the Incas to honor their ancestors and connect with their spiritual beliefs.
In addition to the strategic advantages and spiritual significance, building Machu Picchu on a mountain also served practical purposes. The mountain’s elevation allowed for the use of terraces, which the Incas used to grow crops such as corn, potatoes, and quinoa.
Machu Picchu is not only a remarkable feat of engineering but also a masterpiece of architectural design. The Incas’ innovative use of stone, water, and terraces created a sustainable and harmonious living environment in a challenging mountainous terrain.
The architecture of Machu Picchu is characterized by the use of finely cut and precisely fitted stones. The Incas used a technique called ashlar masonry, which involves shaping stones to fit together without the use of mortar. The result is a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance that has withstood centuries of harsh weather conditions and earthquakes.
One of the most impressive architectural features of Machu Picchu is its water management system. The Incas were able to create a complex network of canals and fountains that supplied the city with water. This water came from natural springs located near the mountain. They also constructed a sophisticated drainage system that prevented flooding and erosion.
Another notable feature of Machu Picchu’s architecture is the use of terraces. The Incas created terraces by leveling off steep slopes and building retaining walls to prevent soil erosion. These terraces were used for agricultural purposes. Thus, these structures allowed the Incas to grow crops at high altitudes.
The Incas’ architectural achievements at Machu Picchu were not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. The buildings at Machu Picchu are constructed with a keen eye for symmetry and proportion. The Incas also incorporated natural elements into their designs. Among these elements are the use of large boulders and the incorporation of natural rock formations into the buildings.
Getting to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself, and the most famous route to reach this ancient Inca city is through the Inca Trail. This 26-mile (41 km) trek takes hikers through stunning mountain scenery, Inca ruins, and dense cloud forests, culminating in the unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a well-maintained and regulated trail that can be completed in four days and three nights. Hikers must obtain a permit to trek the Inca Trail, and it’s best to book well in advance as the permits are limited and often sell out quickly.
The trail starts at km 82, located in the Sacred Valley near the town of Ollantaytambo. From here, hikers cross the Vilcanota River and begin the ascent to the first Inca ruin on the trail, Llactapata. The trail then winds through stunning Andean landscapes, with steep ascents and descents, before reaching the highest point of the trek, the aptly named Dead Woman’s Pass at 13,779 feet (4,200 meters).
As hikers descend from Dead Woman’s Pass, the trail passes through a variety of ecosystems, from high-altitude grasslands to lush cloud forests. Along the way, hikers can visit several Inca ruins, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca, all of which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The fourth and final day of the trek begins with an early morning start to reach Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, before sunrise. The Sun Gate offers the first glimpse of Machu Picchu on a mountain, and the sight is truly breathtaking. From here, it’s a short descent to the ancient Inca city itself, where hikers can spend several hours exploring the ruins and learning about the history and culture of the Peruvian Andes.
