Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Peru ·
Description
Machu Picchu emerges from the mist like an impossible vision. Agricultural terraces cascade down vertiginous slopes, while perfectly fitted stone temples honor the sun and mountains. Huayna Picchu watches from above, and each dawn recreates the moment Hiram Bingham discovered this forgotten wonder.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Machu Picchu is unique testimony to the Inca civilization at its peak. The architectural integration with the mountain landscape, anti-seismic construction techniques and terrace system demonstrate exceptional mastery of the natural environment for ceremonial and agricultural purposes.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For being a masterpiece of Inca architecture integrated into the landscape, and exceptional testimony to a vanished civilization.
It was inscribed in 1983 as a mixed site (cultural and natural) under criteria (i), (iii), (vii) and (ix).
In the Peruvian Andes, at 2,430 m altitude, Cusco region.
Train from Cusco/Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then bus; or hiking the Inca Trail (4 days).
Yes, tickets are limited and must be purchased weeks in advance, especially for Huayna Picchu.