Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in southern Peru. Despite being a world-famous and popular tourist destination, the site still hides many secrets and remains a puzzle for historians and archeologists. Continue reading to check out some quick facts about Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu’s True Purpose Remains a Mystery
There is no definitive answer about the purpose of Machu Picchu. Popular theories include that the citadel was used as a royal estate or ceremonial ground.
Machu Picchu Was Discovered By Accident
Explorer Hiram Bingham III discovered Machu Picchu in 1911 by accident. He initially looked for the Inca’s hidden capital, Vilcabamba, and he believed he found it when he arrived at the site of Machu Picchu. It was only after his death that historians learned Vilcabamba is situated elsewhere.
Machu Picchu Was Built Without Mortar
One of the most impressive things about Machu Picchu is that the citadel was constructed without the use of mortar. Instead, it was built by wedging precisely-cut stones next to each other. This building style proved beneficial as it protects Machu Picchu from earthquakes.
Machu Picchu Artifacts Were Displaced for 100 Years
After discovering Machu Picchu, Bingham led an excavation mission that saw him collect thousands of artifacts and send them to Yale University, where he worked as a professor. Initially considered to be loaned, the artifacts remained at Yale for 100 years before being returned to Peru. The throve is considered to be the most important and valuable collection of Inca artifacts in the world.
Machu Picchu Site Still Isn’t Completely Discovered
Despite knowing about it for centuries, historians and archeologists still have a lot to learn about Machu Picchu. Its complex system of underground tunnels is yet to be fully explored, while the citadel is surrounded by rich vegetation that could hide more ruins.