MACHU PICCHU: THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS
The ruins of Machu Picchu are the most important attraction of Peru. This lost city was found at 74.56 miles away from the city of Cusco, in the Urubamba valley. Since its discovery in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham, there were built many hypotheses regarding the construction of the city. However, it is know that the Incas built the city in this rough area of the jungle to avoid access and possible attacks of from their enemies. Machu Picchu was the most important Inca center for worship and astronomic observation. Machu Picchu has to important areas: to the south, the agriculture area is made up of terraces, aqueducts, etc. To the north, the urban area is the city with its temples, observatories, workshops, and sacred burial plots. There are three ways to reach Machu Picchu: by helicopter (30 minutes flight), by train (4 hours to Aguas Calientes), and through the trekking route known as the “Inca Trail” (a three day journey). This trail is considered to be the most spectacular routs in the world; this is part of the 14,291.54 miles that the Incas built all around South America. The climb to the Huayna Picchu is the best experience you can probably dream about. The name Huayna Picchu means “Young Mountain” compared to Machu Picchu which means “Old Mountain”. From the top of the Young Mountain you have an extraordinary view of the Machu Picchu complex and of the path that leads to the terraces on the edge of the abyss as well as some ruins of temples. Beyond the myths, Machu Picchu is the expression of the Incas. This city catches the attention of all its visitors who admire its magnificent beauty.
CUSCO: CITY OF THE INCAS
Cusco is considered to be among the most ancient cities of the continent. “The
Earth’s Navel” is the meaning of the city name Qosqo in Quechua. There are
many myths about the creation of the city. However it is known that the city
existed before the year 5000 BC. The Spanish foundation of the city took place
in 1534.Later it was the seat of the first Bishop of South America and the
center of a great cultural activity. One of the most outstanding arts schools of
the world took place in Cusco, The Escuela Cusqueña. The main characteristic
of this city is the perfect blend of the urban with the pre-Colombian
monuments, among the most outstanding buildings is the Koricancha temple,
which is located near the main square. This was the center of the cult to the
Sun God or Inti. On top of this temple, the Spanish built he Santo Domingo
Convent. The Compañia de Jesus is considered to be the most beautiful church
of the continent. This church together with La Merced is some of the Spanish
legacy. Walking along the streets of the city, there are wonderful things to visit
as the craftsmen village known as San Blas. Its temple is a magnificent piece
of colonial art. In and out of Cusco are great things to see. For example, in the
center of the city are the Sacsayhuaman ruins or the complex of
Ollantaytambo and the towns of Pisac and Calca. There is also course
Machu Picchu, an awe-inspiring city. In Cusco you can also find religious
festivities that you can enjoy such as the Procession of the Corpus Christi or
the Inti Raymi. Come to Cusco. Nothing you have ever done is even close to a
visit to Cusco.