When Was Machu Picchu Discovered: Unearthing the Lost Incan Citadel
The true story behind the rediscovery of Machu Picchu and the global fascination it inspired.
Introduction
When was Machu Picchu discovered? This question has fascinated historians, travellers, and archaeologists alike for more than a century. Though the ancient site of Machu Picchu was long known to local Indigenous communities, it wasn’t until 1911 that the Western world came to recognise its historical and cultural significance.
Located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, this once-forgotten city has become one of the world’s most treasured archaeological sites. From its mysterious past and remarkable construction to its modern-day tourism boom, Machu Picchu’s story continues to captivate global audiences.
Quick Bio: Machu Picchu
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Built | Around 1450 during the reign of Pachacuti |
| Discovered (Western World) | 24 July 1911 by Hiram Bingham |
| Location | Andes Mountains, Cusco Region, Peru |
| Elevation | 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level |
| Structure | Royal estate, ceremonial and astronomical |
| Abandonment | Mid-16th century (around 1572) |
| Rediscovered by locals | Agustín Lizárraga in 1902 (noted visitor) |
Hiram Bingham’s Expedition
Machu Picchu was officially introduced to the Western world on 24 July 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham III reached the site with the help of local farmer Melchor Arteaga and an 11-year-old boy named Pablito. Guided by these locals, Bingham climbed the steep trails and was stunned to find expansive ruins engulfed by thick vegetation.
Although the site was known to nearby farmers, it was Bingham’s exploration and subsequent documentation that brought Machu Picchu international fame. His writings and photographs were later published by Yale University and National Geographic, igniting global interest.
Prior Knowledge Before Bingham
While Bingham is credited with discovery in a Western context, local Quechua communities had always known of the site. In fact, Agustín Lizárraga, a Peruvian explorer and farmer, reportedly visited Machu Picchu in 1902, nearly a decade before Bingham. He even carved his name into one of the temple walls, evidence that was later discovered by Bingham himself.
Historical Context: When Was Machu Picchu Built?
Construction During the Inca Empire
To understand the site’s origins, one must ask: When was Machu Picchu built? Archaeologists believe construction began around 1450 during the reign of Inca emperor Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. It was likely a royal estate and spiritual retreat, with breathtaking views and innovative engineering.
This magnificent site was never revealed to the Spanish conquistadors, which is part of the reason why it remained preserved for centuries. It served both agricultural and ceremonial purposes, featuring temples, fountains, terraces, and astronomy-based structures.
Architectural Brilliance
The stonework of Machu Picchu reflects the Inca’s mastery in architecture. Massive stones were precisely cut and fitted without mortar, a technique known as ashlar. The citadel’s design aligns with astronomical events, and its Machu Picchu Map divides it into sacred, urban, and agricultural zones.
Geographic Location and Pronunciation
Where Is Machu Picchu Located in Which Country?
Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco Region of Peru, nestled on a narrow ridge between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon Basin. It sits at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level and overlooks the Urubamba River.
Today, visitors can access the site via train, bus, or the famous Inca Trail, which offers a multi-day trekking experience. Its location provides breathtaking views that are often seen in Machu Picchu photos shared worldwide.
How to Pronounce Machu Picchu Correctly
The correct Machu Picchu pronunciation is “MAH-choo PEEK-shoo.” The “Picchu” part, derived from the Quechua word for “old peak,” is often mispronounced as “PEE-choo,” but the soft “k” sound is more accurate.
The Mystery of Abandonment
Why Was Machu Picchu Abandoned?
One of the greatest puzzles is why was Machu Picchu abandoned. Theories suggest that the city was vacated around the mid-1500s, possibly due to the Spanish conquest, although there’s no evidence the Spaniards ever discovered the site.
Other factors such as smallpox outbreaks, environmental disruptions, or political instability may have contributed to its desertion. The site was slowly overtaken by the forest, becoming a secret preserved by nature and local memory.
A Forgotten Wonder Preserved
For centuries, the site remained hidden from the global community. The dense jungle cover helped shield its structures from looters and degradation. This natural preservation played a major role in maintaining the condition of the ruins until modern archaeologists began excavation and conservation work.
Tourism and Ticketing Information
Modern-Day Access and Entry
Machu Picchu is one of the most visited sites in the world, drawing over a million tourists annually. Machu Picchu tickets are required for entry and must be purchased in advance due to strict regulations aimed at preserving the site.
There are various ticket types including general entry, Huayna Picchu hike, and Machu Picchu Mountain access. Visitor caps are enforced daily to protect the site’s integrity.
Conservation and UNESCO Heritage Status
In 1983, Machu Picchu was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2007, it was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Conservation efforts continue under the guidance of Peruvian authorities and international partnerships to ensure the site remains intact for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who discovered Machu Picchu?
Hiram Bingham III officially introduced Machu Picchu to the world in 1911, but local farmers and Agustín Lizárraga were aware of it years before.
When was Machu Picchu built?
The site was built around 1450 during the Inca Empire under the rule of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui.
Where is Machu Picchu located in which country?
It is located in Peru, in the Cusco Region, high in the Andes Mountains above the Urubamba River valley.
How do you pronounce Machu Picchu?
The correct pronunciation is “MAH-choo PEEK-shoo,” with an aspirated “ch” in “Picchu.”
Why was Machu Picchu abandoned?
It may have been abandoned due to disease, drought, or the collapse of Incan political power during the Spanish conquest era.
How can I buy tickets for Machu Picchu?
Tickets must be booked in advance through official channels. Entry is limited daily and often sells out quickly.
