The Seven Wonders of the World

A Comprehensive Guide

Machu Picchu

Peru, Andes Mountains, northwest of Cuzco

History

The purpose of Machu Picchu is currently unclear, with some claiming it to be, among other theories, a religious site, or a royal estate meant for emperors and nobles. It may have been built when the Inca empira was at its strongest, but also abandoned about a century after, possibly because of a smallpox epidemic. It’s existence became public knowledge after being seen by Hiram Bingham, who was brought there by Melchor Arteaga, who was a local. After this, he had written a book titled ‘The Lost City of the Incas’, which brought many tourists to Peru to see it, and eventually became a popular attraction. The site has been extensively excavated to this day.

Hotels

Restaurants