Latitude and longitude coordinates are: -13.163455, -72.5452308.
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, South America. It is situated on a mountain ridge above the Sacred Valley, northwest of Cusco. Machu Picchu is renowned for its stunning architecture, dramatic setting, and historical significance, making it one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Built during the 15th century by the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and religious sanctuary. The site encompasses approximately 13 square kilometers (5 square miles) and consists of more than 150 buildings, including houses, temples, terraces, and storage structures. The structures were constructed with intricately carved stones fitted together without mortar, showcasing the remarkable engineering and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization.
Machu Picchu is divided into two main areas: the agricultural zone and the urban sector. The agricultural terraces, constructed on steep slopes, allowed the Inca to cultivate crops and sustain the population of the citadel. The urban sector contains plazas, temples, residences, and ceremonial spaces, including the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone, which is believed to have served as a solar observatory.
Despite its grandeur and historical importance, Machu Picchu remained unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. Since then, it has attracted millions of visitors each year, drawn by its awe-inspiring architecture and the sense of mystery surrounding its purpose and abandonment.
Machu Picchu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983 and is considered a symbol of Inca civilization and its remarkable achievements in engineering, agriculture, and urban planning. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural legacy of the Inca Empire, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and breathtaking beauty of ancient Peru.
| Country | Peru |
| Latitude | -13.163455 |
| Longitude | -72.5452308 |
| Elevation | 2450 m |
| Distance | NA km |