101+ Machu Picchu Fun Facts

We’ve created this list of 101 fun facts about Machu Picchu!

This article contains over 101 fun facts about Machu Picchu, fun facts for kids, plus fun facts about its history, tourism, culture, legends, and so much more!

About Machu Picchu
Fun Facts About Machu Picchu
Fun Facts About Machu Picchu for Kids
History
Design
Cultural significance
Tourism
Legends of Machu Picchu
Symbols of Machu Picchu
Other Interesting Things About Machu Picchu

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – About Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, South America. It is situated on a mountain ridge above the Sacred Valley, northwest of Cusco.

Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by the Incas, but it was abandoned by them after less than a century, likely due to the Spanish conquest.

It remained hidden from the outside world until it was rediscovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, attracting thousands of visitors each year. It is known for its stunning beauty, impressive architecture, and its unique location high in the Andes Mountains.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – 90 Fun Facts

Here are 90 fun facts about Machu Picchu:

Machu Picchu was built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century, but was abandoned about 100 years later.
The site is situated on a mountain ridge about 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level.
The name “Machu Picchu” means “old mountain” in the Quechua language.
The construction of Machu Picchu is believed to have taken place during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti.
The site was largely unknown to the outside world until it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer, in 1911.
Machu Picchu was built using massive blocks of stone that were cut and transported from nearby quarries.
The site is divided into two main sections: the urban sector, which includes residential buildings and public spaces, and the agricultural sector, which consists of terraces for farming.
Machu Picchu is considered a masterpiece of Inca engineering, with features such as a sophisticated water management system and a network of stone pathways.
The site was constructed without the use of mortar, using a technique known as “ashlar masonry” to fit the stones together tightly.
The location of Machu Picchu was strategically chosen to provide a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Incas used a system of knotted strings called quipus for record-keeping, but it is unclear whether they used them to record information about Machu Picchu.
The site is believed to have been a royal retreat for the Inca emperor Pachacuti and his family.
Machu Picchu was never conquered by the Spanish, and as a result, many of its original structures and artifacts remain intact.
The site has been extensively studied by archaeologists and historians, but there is still much that is not known about its purpose and function.
The Temple of the Sun is one of the most impressive structures at Machu Picchu, with intricate stonework and a large central tower.
The Intihuatana stone, a carved stone pillar that served as a solar clock, is one of the most important ceremonial objects at Machu Picchu.
The site is surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains, which would have made it difficult for invaders to attack.
The Incas built a system of roads and bridges throughout their empire, including a network of roads that connected Machu Picchu to other Inca sites.
The site was likely abandoned due to the Spanish conquest and the spread of diseases such as smallpox, which killed many of the Inca people.
Machu Picchu is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including orchids, hummingbirds, and spectacled bears.
The citadel has been the subject of many myths and legends, including the idea that it was a “lost city” of gold.
The site is visited by thousands of tourists each year, many of whom hike the Inca Trail to reach the citadel.
The Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, which includes the citadel and surrounding area, covers an area of over 32,000 hectares.
The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
Machu Picchu is a symbol of Inca civilization and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
The Incas believed that the site was a sacred place, and that it was built by the gods.
The site is located in the Andes Mountains, which are known for their rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions.
The Incas used a type of freeze-thaw cycle to split rocks into smaller pieces, which they then shaped and fit together to create structures at Machu Picchu.
The site is believed to have been built as a tribute to the Inca emperor Pachacuti, who is credited with founding the Inca Empire.
Machu Picchu is believed to have been an important center of religious and spiritual activity for the Inca people.
The site was designed to align with the movements of the sun and stars, and may have been used as an astronomical observatory.
The Intihuatana stone, which served as a solar clock, was used by the Incas to mark the solstices and equinoxes.
The site contains many examples of Inca stonework, which is known for its precision and durability.
The Incas built a system of terraces for farming, which allowed them to grow crops in the steep, mountainous terrain.
The site contains several structures that are thought to have been used for astronomical observations, including the Temple of the Sun.
The site contains several structures that are thought to have been used for ceremonial purposes, including the Temple of the Condor.
The site contains several structures that are thought to have been used for residential purposes, including the House of the Inca.
The site contains several structures that are thought to have been used for administrative purposes, including the Palace of the Inca.
The site contains several structures that are thought to have been used for storage, including the Granary.
The site contains several fountains and water channels, which were used for irrigation and for supplying the site with water.
The site contains several stairways and pathways, which are carved into the stone and lead to various parts of the site.
The site contains several platforms and plazas, which were used for gatherings and ceremonies.
The site contains several walls and ramparts, which served as a defensive barrier against potential invaders.
The site contains several tunnels and caves, which may have been used for storage or as hiding places.
The site contains several gateways, which served as entrances and exits to the site.
The site contains several altars and shrines, which were used for religious ceremonies and offerings.
The site contains several niches and alcoves, which may have been used for displaying objects or for storing offerings.
The site contains several trapezoidal doorways and windows, which are a distinctive feature of Inca architecture.
The site contains several courtyards, which served as open spaces for gatherings and ceremonies.
Machu Picchu is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, and continues to be the subject of ongoing research and study.
The site is thought to have been abandoned by the Incas during the Spanish conquest of Peru in the 16th century.
The site was rediscovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.
The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
Machu Picchu is located at an elevation of 7,970 feet (2,430 meters) above sea level.
The site covers an area of about 80,000 acres (32,000 hectares).
Machu Picchu is situated on a ridge between two peaks, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
Huayna Picchu is a steep peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The site is surrounded by lush vegetation, including tropical rainforest and cloud forest.
The site is home to many species of animals, including spectacled bears, mountain lions, and over 400 species of birds.
The site receives over 1 million visitors per year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.
Visitors must hike or take a train to reach the site, as there is no road access.
The Inca Trail is a popular hiking route that leads to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is a 26-mile (42-kilometer) route that takes about 4 days to complete.
The site is open to visitors from 6am to 5pm every day.
The site is closed for maintenance every February.
Machu Picchu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The site is featured on the Peruvian 50 soles banknote.
The site has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including “The Motorcycle Diaries” and “Nova: Ghosts of Machu Picchu.”
The site has inspired many artists and writers, including Pablo Neruda and Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
The site is thought to have been built using a system of rope and pulley devices to transport heavy stones up the steep mountainside.
The site was built using a technique known as “ashlar masonry,” which involves fitting stones together without the use of mortar.
The site contains many examples of Inca art and sculpture, including stone carvings and pottery.
The site is thought to have been a center of religious pilgrimage for the Inca people.
The site is thought to have been a place of refuge for the Inca emperor during times of war.
The site is thought to have been a place of spiritual retreat for the Inca elite.
The name “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak” in the Quechua language.
The site was likely built in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti.
The site contains many examples of Inca engineering, including terraces, aqueducts, and irrigation channels.
The terraces at Machu Picchu were used for agriculture and allowed the Inca people to grow crops in the steep Andean terrain.
The site contains several sacred temples and altars, including the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone.
The Intihuatana stone is a carved rock that was used to mark the position of the sun during the solstices and equinoxes.
The site was built in a location that is prone to earthquakes and landslides, but has remained remarkably well-preserved.
Machu Picchu is home to several unique species of plants, including orchids and bromeliads.
The site was designed to be aligned with astronomical events, such as the winter solstice.
The site is thought to have been abandoned due to a combination of factors, including disease, climate change, and political instability.
The site was looted by treasure hunters in the early 20th century, but many of the artifacts were later recovered and returned to Peru.
The site was closed to visitors in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has since reopened with safety measures in place.
Machu Picchu was the inspiration for the song “El Condor Pasa” by Peruvian composer Daniel Alomía Robles.
The site has been visited by many famous people, including Queen Elizabeth II, Michelle Obama, and Neil Armstrong.
The site has inspired many scientific studies and research projects, including studies of the site’s architecture, hydrology, and ecology.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about Machu Picchu that kids might enjoy:

Machu Picchu is a famous ancient city located high in the Andes Mountains in Peru.
The city was built by the Inca people over 500 years ago.
It was built without the use of wheels, metal tools, or even pack animals.
The city is made up of over 200 buildings, including houses, temples, and storage buildings.
It was abandoned around 1572, and remained hidden for centuries until it was rediscovered in 1911.
The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level.
The site is believed to have been a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti.
Machu Picchu is sometimes called the “Lost City of the Incas”.
The site is surrounded by steep mountains and deep valleys, and can only be reached by hiking or taking a train.
The site has many stone staircases and terraces that were used for farming.
The site contains many examples of Inca architecture, including buildings made of stone blocks that fit together perfectly without mortar.
The site contains a large central plaza that was used for public gatherings and ceremonies.
Machu Picchu was likely built as a retreat for the Inca emperor and his family.
The site contains several temples and altars that were used for religious ceremonies.
The Intihuatana stone is a carved rock at the site that was used to mark the position of the sun during the solstices and equinoxes.
Machu Picchu is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to many species of plants and animals.
The site contains many llamas, which were important animals to the Inca people.
Machu Picchu is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Peru and South America.
The site has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including “The Emperor’s New Groove”.
The city was built using a technique called “ashlar masonry”, which involves cutting and shaping stone blocks to fit perfectly together.
The site is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Machu Picchu was likely built using a system of ramps and levers to move the large stone blocks.
The site was designed to align with the sun during the winter solstice.
Machu Picchu is an amazing example of the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people, and is a testament to their advanced civilization.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – History

Here are some additional historical fun facts about Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca site located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. The exact history of Machu Picchu is not clear, but it is believed to have been built by the Inca people in the 15th century as a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti.

The site was abandoned around 1572 during the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire and was lost to the outside world for centuries. It was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer and historian.

Bingham and his team of explorers found the site while searching for the legendary “lost city of the Incas”. They were led to the site by a local farmer who told them about the ruins of an ancient city high in the mountains.

Bingham believed that Machu Picchu was the “lost city of the Incas” and spent several years excavating the site and studying its history. He believed that the site was a religious and political center for the Inca Empire, and that it was abandoned due to the Spanish conquest.

In recent years, some scholars have challenged Bingham’s interpretation of the site’s history. Some believe that Machu Picchu was not a “lost city”, but was instead a well-known site that was visited by locals and travelers for centuries after the Inca Empire fell.

Despite these debates, Machu Picchu remains one of the most important and popular archaeological sites in the world. It is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people, and a symbol of the rich history and culture of Peru.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – Design

Here are some additional fun facts about Machu Picchu’s design and construction.

The design and construction of Machu Picchu is a remarkable feat of engineering and architecture. The site was built on a steep slope at an elevation of 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) in the Andes Mountains of Peru.

The Incas used a technique called “ashlar masonry” to build the site. This involved cutting large blocks of stone and fitting them together without the use of mortar. The stones were so precisely cut that they fit together perfectly, and the site has withstood centuries of earthquakes and other natural disasters.

Machu Picchu is divided into two main areas: the agricultural sector and the urban sector. The agricultural sector includes terraced fields for growing crops, while the urban sector includes residential and ceremonial structures.

The site is also home to several large stone structures, including the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone. The Temple of the Sun is a circular structure with a carved stone altar at its center, while the Intihuatana Stone is a carved stone pillar that is believed to have been used in astronomical observations.

The Incas also built a sophisticated system of aqueducts and canals to bring water to the site, and a network of stone staircases and pathways to connect the different areas of the site.

The construction of Machu Picchu is thought to have taken place over several decades, and to have involved a large number of workers. The exact number of workers and the methods used to transport the large stone blocks to the site are still not fully understood. However, it is clear that the Inca people possessed a remarkable level of skill and knowledge in the fields of engineering and construction.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – Cultural Significance

Machu Picchu is a site of great cultural significance, both for the Inca people who built it and for the people of Peru and the world today.

For the Inca people, Machu Picchu was a sacred site that served as a religious and political center. It was believed to be the home of the Inca emperor Pachacuti and was used for important religious ceremonies and rituals.

Today, Machu Picchu is a symbol of the rich history and culture of Peru. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Machu Picchu is also a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world each year. Visitors come to see the remarkable architecture and engineering of the site, as well as to learn about the history and culture of the Inca people.

The cultural significance of Machu Picchu is also reflected in the many festivals and celebrations that take place in the region each year. These include the Inti Raymi festival, which celebrates the winter solstice and the return of the sun, and the Corpus Christi festival, which combines Catholic and Inca traditions.

Overall, Machu Picchu is a site of great cultural significance that continues to inspire and captivate people around the world. It is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Inca people, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Peru and South America.

Fun Facts About Machu Picchu – Tourism

Another fun fact about Machu Picchu is that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The site is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru and can be reached by train or hiking along the Inca Trail.

To preserve the site and its fragile ecosystem, the Peruvian government has implemented a number of regulations and restrictions on tourism at Machu Picchu. These include limits on the number of visitors per day and the hours during which visitors are allowed to enter the site.

Visitors to Machu Picchu are required to purchase a ticket in advance and are encouraged to book well in advance due to the popularity of the site. Guided tours are available, and many visitors choose to hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.

In addition to visiting Machu Picchu itself, there are a number of other attractions and activities in the area that are popular with tourists. These include exploring the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, visiting the Inca Bridge, and hiking to other Inca sites in the region.

Overall, tourism at Machu Picchu is carefully managed to balance the needs of visitors with the need to preserve this important cultural site for future generations. Visitors to the site have the opportunity to learn about the remarkable history and culture of the Inca people, and to appreciate the beauty and engineering of this ancient site.

About Machu Picchu – Legends

Another fun fact about Machu Picchu is that it is steeped in legends and myths that have been passed down through generations. Some of the most famous legends of Machu Picchu include:

The Lost City of the Incas: According to legend, Machu Picchu was a secret city built by the Inca emperor Pachacuti to hide his treasure and protect his people from invading enemies.

The Sacred Rock: It is said that the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu was a place of great spiritual power and was used for important religious ceremonies and rituals.

The Stone of Intihuatana: The Stone of Intihuatana is a unique stone structure that is believed to have been used for astronomical observations and as a calendar.

The Three Windows: The Three Windows are a set of three windows that overlook the Urubamba River. According to legend, they represent the three worlds of the Inca religion: the underworld, the earth, and the heavens.

The Hidden Treasure: Some legends suggest that there is a hidden treasure buried somewhere at Machu Picchu, although there is no evidence to support this claim.

These legends and myths have contributed to the mystery and allure of Machu Picchu, and continue to capture the imagination of visitors and researchers alike.

About Machu Picchu – Symbols

Another fun facts about Machu Picchu is that it is is full of symbolism and hidden meanings, reflecting the rich culture and history of the Inca people. Some of the most important symbols of Machu Picchu include:

Intihuatana: The Intihuatana Stone is a unique structure at Machu Picchu that was likely used for astronomical observations and as a calendar. It is considered one of the most important symbols of the site.

Sun Temple: The Sun Temple is a circular structure that is thought to have been dedicated to the sun god Inti. Its curved walls and intricate stonework are examples of Inca architectural mastery.

Water channels: Machu Picchu was designed to take advantage of natural water sources, and the site is full of intricate water channels and fountains. These are symbolic of the importance of water in Inca culture and religion.

Llamas: Llamas were an important part of Inca life, and they are often depicted in carvings and artwork at Machu Picchu. They symbolize fertility, strength, and resilience.

Condors: The Andean condor is a powerful bird that is revered in Inca culture. Its image is often depicted in carvings and artwork at Machu Picchu, symbolizing freedom and strength.

These symbols and others at Machu Picchu offer a glimpse into the complex and sophisticated culture of the Inca people, and are a testament to their creativity, engineering prowess, and reverence for the natural world.

Other Interesting Things About Machu Picchu – Movies and Art

Machu Picchu has been a popular subject in art and film, capturing the imagination of artists and filmmakers from around the world. Here are some examples:

Art: Machu Picchu has been depicted in countless paintings, drawings, and photographs over the years. Many artists are drawn to the site’s stunning landscape and intricate stonework, and have used it as a source of inspiration for their work.

Film: Machu Picchu has been featured in a number of films, documentaries, and TV shows. One of the most famous is “The Motorcycle Diaries” (2004), which tells the story of Che Guevara’s journey through South America, including a visit to Machu Picchu.

Literature: Machu Picchu has been the subject of numerous books and literary works, including “Turn Right at Machu Picchu” by Mark Adams and “The Lost City of the Incas” by Hiram Bingham.

Music: Machu Picchu has also been referenced in numerous songs and music videos, including “Machu Picchu” by The Strokes and “Chicha Roja” by Los Mirlos.

Video Games: Machu Picchu has also made appearances in popular video games such as “Assassin’s Creed II” and “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.”

Through these artistic representations, Machu Picchu has become a symbol of South American culture and history, inspiring and captivating people around the world.

Other Interesting Things About Machu Picchu – Quotes

In addition to the fun facts about Machu Picchu, here are some famous quotes about Machu Picchu:

“Machu Picchu is a trip to the serenity of the soul, to the eternal fusion with the cosmos; where we feel our fragility. It is one of the greatest marvels of South America.” – Pablo Neruda, Chilean poet and Nobel laureate

“Machu Picchu is not just a place, it’s a feeling.” – Unknown

“The Inca city in the clouds is one of the world’s most remarkable sites, a place that combines incredible engineering with awe-inspiring natural beauty.” – National Geographic

“Machu Picchu is a window into the past, a glimpse into a culture that was rich, complex and deeply connected to the natural world.” – Mark Adams, author of “Turn Right at Machu Picchu”

“Machu Picchu is a symbol of the great achievements of the Inca civilization, a testament to their skill, intelligence, and artistic vision.” – Unknown

“Machu Picchu is not only one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, but it is also a place of spiritual importance and natural beauty.” – World Monuments Fund

“The view from Machu Picchu is enough to justify the trip alone. It is one of the most breathtaking sights on earth.” – Unknown

“Machu Picchu is a place of magic, where you can feel the energy of the ancient civilization that built it.” – Unknown

These quotes capture the wonder and awe that Machu Picchu inspires in people around the world, as well as the site’s historical, cultural, and spiritual significance.