Traveling, the most enduring experience one can get in their lifetime. Long vacation to another country or simply a tour to discover and explore the world is a fulfilling event to the heart and what better than a historical tour that takes you back into the past. Machu Picchu tours is a similar destination for all historic lovers.
Machu Picchu
Above the Urubamba River valley, where the Andes Mountains rest in Peru, hidden in these parts lies an Incan citadel. The story of this Incan citadel goes back to the 15th century but later abandoned due to other circumstances. This is one of the prominent symbols of the Incan Empire that came into existence around 1450AD. Moreover, it held the title of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
The renowned history…
The masonry skills displayed by the Incas were some of the best skills in the world. Their sophisticated wall was designed by using dry-stone which fused with huge blocks without the use of mortar. This technique was named Ashlar, wherein stones are cut to fit together without mortar. It is so sophisticated that not even a knife blade can fit in between stones. It is also observed that some of the buildings act as astronomical alignments, while some provide vivid panoramic views. The exact former use of these structures still remains a mystery.
A Machu Picchu tour can take you thousands of years back into the past during the Inca civilization and the lives of these people. Machu Picchu of Peru offers one of the most extravagant sights and fascinating structures today.
The Central Plaza view…
The Central Plaza is A place surrounded with roofless stone structures. This is further covered by steep green terraces. The plaza is separated from the ceremonial section. The plaza is open to sight llamas grazing on the fresh grass. The plaza also offers a great view of Huayna Picchu.
House of the High Priest
There are some ruins that present something called the House of the High Priest, many details are not known of this building but it is a must-see spot when visiting Machu Picchu.
These structures are still standing tall with it’s might with all four walls intact. The house of the High Priest is found opposite to the Principal Temple that lies in the Sacred Plaza and the Temple of the Three Windows. These Inca structures have gained fame as some of the best structures available to see in this area.
The Funerary Rock Caretaker and his hut…
Machu Picchu’s most photogenic place would be the Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock. This is one of the few buildings that were restored to their former glory.
The Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock is associated with a tomb because at this location that consisted of carved rocks is said to be the space where nobility from the Inca are believed to be mummified.
This point is known to offer a great view of the entire complex below. Furthermore, if you’re fortunate enough you may spot a herd of alpacas and llamas entering Machu Picchu. There animals graze near Funerary Rock on the grass along the terraces.
Drawbridge
The Drawbridge is yet another fascinating cliff-clinging trail left behind by the Inca’s. This trail is composed of lush vegetation that will surround you to a unique essence of Machu Picchu. The drawbridge is known to be made of granite yet another fascinating architecture built by the ever famous Inca builders. This is certainly another amazing site to witness. Moreover, a varied species of bromeliads and epiphytic orchids are found to be growing in these parts…
Intihuatana
The Intihuatana in Machu Picchu is regarded as a sacred stone of the Inca’s. Some say it was an astronomical observatory, wherein the Intihuatana stone accurately indicates the two equinoxes. There arises a significant site wherein, twice a year the sun sits directly over the stone where by no shadow is created.
These structures are a type of a rock pill that is often mistaken for a sundial. In addition to that, there is a site situated at the very top of Intihuatana hill which is known to rejuvenate one’s energy. It is believed by many visitors that the energy present at the site is magical.
Inti Punku —Sun Gate
Well if you find the Intihuatana fascinating you are sure to love the Inca Trail to Intipunku — the Sun Gate. This is a major hiking spot at Machu Picchu. This place is believed to be the gateway specialized for the Elite in the Inca Society, basically it is an entry point in Machu Picchu for the Elites.
Machu Picchu Royal tombs
Who doesn’t love to explore the mysterious spaces where people rest. Well, the Royal Tomb is another gem hidden below the Temple of the Sun. This tomb is situated near the center of Machu Picchu. The Royal tombs are well known for the beautiful craftsmanship of the Inca stonemasons. These stone masons have carefully carved the natural rock cave.
Another main feature of this tomb is the large altar with two levels and the stone staircase that is carved into the rock. In addition, the finely carved stone walls, ceremonial niches, and the Inca cross wall carving will astonish you.
Temple’s of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu has a great deal of Temple’s from the Inca civilization. Some of them are the Principal Temple, The Temple Of The Condor, Temple Of The Three Windows, Temple of the Sun and The Temple of the Moon. There Temples have their own unique construction, which display the fine masonry skills of the Inca’s.
All these Temples have something unique to offer. Vast amount of historical cultures are embedded in these Temples. Like the sacrificial altar, hidden caves, ritual sites and much more. To get a better experience of all these first hand visits to the Temple of Condor is a must. These sites are known for their magnificence which can only be realized by actually witnessing them.
Doesn’t that sound all magical, the Inca’s are one of the most beautiful craftsmanship that are found standing tall on the surface of the earth. The Machu Picchu tours are a must for every person who loves to explore the depth of culture and history. So take your time to plan out a trip to Peru of the best sites namely Machu Picchu.
