5 Facts About Machu Pichhu That Will Blow Your Mind

As one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is on most people’s travel bucket list. But how much do you actually know about these famous Inca ruins? The ruins are located within the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, a UNESCO site, and under the protection of the National System of Protected Natural Areas by the State (SERNAP). The Sanctuary spreads over an area of 32,592 hectares in the basin of the river Vilcanota-Urubamba. Machu Picchu is undoubtedly a popular South American destination – and with good reason. Set atop the Andes Mountains, this archaeological site was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is also considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. But how much do you know about Machu Picchu? Here’s 5 interesting facts you may not have heard before.

* The site “disappeared” for centuries

The ancient Inca site which was built midway through the mid-1400’s but was unknown to outsiders until 1911, when it was brought to international attention by archaeologist Hiram Bingham. On July 7th 2007 Machu Picchu was named one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. It has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1983.

* The Spanish never found it

Machu Picchu is often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas” due to the belief that the Spanish never found the city when they conquered the Incan Empire in the 1500’s.

* It takes some effort to get there

Machu Picchu is located in the small province of Urubamba in Cusco. The unique stone construction of Machu Picchu is built against a cliff with a drop of 400m, which overlooks the Urubamba River. Check out our Cusco city guide to make sure you make the most of your time and don’t miss out on some of Peru’s hidden gems.

* There are ghost stories

Due to its location high in the mountains, every day until roughly midday a blanket of mist covers Machu Picchu. This creates the feeling of floating amongst the clouds. However, legend has it that at night, spirits rise from the ground and try to take people away. To protect against this, most porters will sleep with a mirror or a shiny piece of metal beneath them. So, watch out!!

* You won’t learn this in your Spanish book

The Incas spoke a language called Quechua and many people still speak the language to this day. Machu Picchu means “Old Mountain” or “Old Peak” when translated from Quechua into English.