Machu Picchu: The Lost Civilization

Machu Picchu is a mysterious city in the clouds, belonging to the Inca Empire, with possible reasons for its construction and abandonment explored in this book.

Format: Hardback
Length: 24 pages
Publication date: 17 January 2019
Publisher: Bellwether Media

Machu Picchu, the enigmatic city in the clouds, holds a captivating air of mystery. While historians have identified it as a former site of the Inca Empire, much about its history remains shrouded in obscurity. In this captivating book, reluctant readers will embark on a journey to uncover the possible reasons behind Machu Picchu's construction and eventual abandonment.

The city's enigmatic nature has long captivated the imagination of scholars and adventurers alike. Its remote location, nestled high in the Andes Mountains, adds to its allure, with its breathtaking views and awe-inspiring architecture. However, the true story of Machu Picchu remains a mystery, with only fragments of its past revealed through archaeological excavations and historical records.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Machu Picchu is its construction. The city was built during the Inca Empire, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries. The Incas were a highly advanced civilization, known for their impressive engineering and architectural skills. However, the construction of Machu Picchu was particularly remarkable, as it was built on a mountain ridge at an altitude of over 7,000 feet. This location made it difficult to access and defend, and it suggests that Machu Picchu was not intended to be a permanent settlement but rather a sacred site or a ceremonial center.

Another intriguing aspect of Machu Picchu is its architecture. The city is designed in a unique style that combines Inca and pre-Inca architectural elements. The buildings are constructed with large stones, which were quarried from the surrounding mountains, and are arranged in a series of terraces. The terraces are designed to maximize the use of space and to provide a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

Despite its impressive architecture, Machu Picchu was abandoned by the Incas in the 16th century. The exact reasons for its abandonment are still a matter of debate, but several theories have been proposed. One theory suggests that the city was abandoned due to a drought or other natural disaster. Another theory suggests that the city was abandoned due to political instability or a change in the political landscape of the region.

In recent years, Machu Picchu has become a major tourist destination. Thousands of people visit the city each year, eager to explore its ancient ruins and learn about its history. However, the influx of tourists has also posed challenges for the preservation of the site. The city is vulnerable to erosion and other forms of damage, and the influx of tourists can also disrupt the delicate ecosystem of the surrounding area.

To address these challenges, the Peruvian government has taken steps to protect Machu Picchu. The site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the government has implemented measures to limit the number of tourists and to preserve the site's natural environment. These measures include the construction of new infrastructure, the restoration of damaged buildings, and the implementation of sustainable tourism practices.

Despite these efforts, Machu Picchu remains a fragile and vulnerable site. The city's architecture and infrastructure are still in need of repair, and the surrounding ecosystem is still threatened by erosion and other forms of damage. However, by working together, we can help to preserve this incredible site for future generations.

In conclusion, Machu Picchu is a city in the clouds that holds a captivating air of mystery. While historians have identified it as a former site of the Inca Empire, much about its history remains shrouded in obscurity. In this captivating book, reluctant readers will embark on a journey to uncover the possible reasons behind Machu Picchu's construction and eventual abandonment. The city's enigmatic nature, remote location, and impressive architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. However, the influx of tourists has also posed challenges for the preservation of the site, and it is up to us to work together to protect this incredible site for future generations.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 232 x 174 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781626176966