10Machu Picchu – Peru
Hidden high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is perhaps the most famous of all lost cities. Built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century, this stunning city was abandoned just a century later during the Spanish conquest of Peru. For centuries, Machu Picchu remained largely unknown to the outside world, concealed by dense jungle. In 1911, American explorer Hiram Bingham brought global attention to this spectacular site, and it has since become one of the most iconic archaeological wonders in the world. Machu Picchu’s stone temples, terraces, and pathways offer breathtaking views and provide insight into the ingenuity and sophistication of Inca engineering.
