4Machu Picchu – Peru
High in the Andes Mountains of Peru lies Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel that remains one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring architectural achievements in the world. Built in the 15th century and abandoned just a century later, Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham. Its location, perched on a mountaintop, surrounded by lush green valleys and mist-covered peaks, adds to its allure.
The site’s architectural precision is remarkable, with terraces, temples, and palaces constructed from precisely cut stones that fit together without mortar. Machu Picchu’s Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, and Room of the Three Windows are examples of the Inca’s advanced understanding of astronomy and stonework. The ancient citadel remains a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
