I figure it would be reasonable to start this blog with one of the most recognizable places in Peru, the undeniably mysterious Machu Picchu.
Photo courtesy: National geography
When I have the chance to visit the Inca city back in 2010, I did it the way most tourists experience it. By that I mean, I am from Lima, Peru’s capital which is at Sea level. So we took a short plane ride to Cuzco (about 3 hrs) , next day we got in the train from Cuzco Poroy Station to Machu Picchu ( 4 hrs) and last a bus ride to climb up the last part of the journey (25mins). This majestic city that was built atop two mountains at an impressive 7,970 ft (2,430 m) above sea level may present a challenge to those wary of heights. But if you have the body and mental capacity you can trek and venture into “Los Caminos del Inca” expedition which takes about 4 days. Either way, the result is short of magnificent.
Sometimes you wait for something so spectacular to blow your mind, a puzzle, you may said, that pure logic won’t just explain. Seeing this relative small citadel in the middle of nowhere, with so many questions that include: why there, how were they able to build it, and what was its purpose? one cannot help but to wonder. And feel its magical energy. Some answers are at hand.
Build by the last Inca emperor Atahualpa around 1450 in a strategic location, possible as a fortress and exclusive retreat for the royal and Inca elite. But legends lingers and many still believe that it was a secret ceremonial city devoted to the God sun, occupied by virgins. Or the more plausible idea that it was an astronomical observatory. Whatever the real reason for what is now considered part of the New Seven Wonders of the World as well as UNESCO World Heritage Site to exist, we will always marvel at the engineering powers if the Inca community. As one of the biggest questions is how were they able to cut and lift some giants dry stone-some at 50 tons weight- to the top of the mountains without iron tools or wheels still stands in place. And how did they fit the stones together so tightly, not even a needle can go through. To be honest, that one makes my head spin a bit, just super neat!
As one might guess, I’m a bit partial to the past glories of Machu Picchu and its significance in the world we live in today. At a time where everything is at our fingertips, longing to still discover something special is like a breath of fresh air.
To be continue….:)
Peruana Americana 