Machu Picchu: The Lost Sanctuary in the Clouds

Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Recognized as one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, Machu Picchu is renowned for its stunning mountainous setting, architectural marvels, and historical significance. Machu Picchu is situated in the Andes Mountains, near the town of Aguas Calientes, in the Urubamba Province of the Cusco Region, Peru. It is positioned at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level. Machu Picchu was built by the Inca civilization during the 15th century, around 1450–1460 AD, at the height of the Inca Empire. It served as a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. Yet, the exact purpose of Machu Picchu is still debated among historians and archaeologists. It is believed to have served as a royal retreat, religious site, or possibly an estate for elite members of the Inca society. The city's design reflects Inca architectural and engineering prowess, with its carefully cons...