Machu Picchu is a South American Must-See

Photo by Scott Umstattd on Unsplash

Located in the Andes Mountains in the South American country of Peru is one of humanity’s most well-preserved gems.

For anyone interested in indigenous history and cultures, Machu Picchu is a must-visit in order to gain a deeper understanding, knowledge, and respect for the peoples that once inhabited the Americas before the arrival of European colonists.

Located at an altitude of 2,430 meters on top of a ridge in the Andes, overlooking the Urubamba River valley, Machu Picchu also offers a gorgeous natural landscape to all visitors. The dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Andes contrast with the fertile green of the relatively low land in which Machu Picchu is located.

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Machu Picchu itself was built by the Inca in the 15th century, just before the arrival of Europeans. It is a citadel, meaning that it served as both a town for the culture’s people as well as a defensive lookout from which the tribe could guard themselves from potential invaders.

Many activities happened in Machu Picchu, from agriculture to religious services. Still visible are terraces that once served as a place from growing the crops that fed the residents of the citadel.

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The reason that Machu Picchu is so intact and well-preserved is because Spanish conquerors never found it. Although the original residents died because of smallpox brought by the Europeans, it remained undiscovered until 1911.

This wonder is an unforgettable destination for all visitors that are lucky enough to visit it.