Why is Machu Picchu so special?

It is considered by many to be the most spectacular urban creation of the Inca Empire and one of the most important heritage sites in the world. It sits on top of a mountain, 8,000 feet (2,430 meters) in the tropical forest, offering spectacular scenery with significant endemic biodiversity of flora and fauna.



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Threats to the Sanctuary Machu Picchu faces a variety of threats: excessive tourism, which is especially hard on the fragile site; the generation of solid waste; unsustainable agriculture practices; overgrazing and forest fires; aggravating erosion; landslides; mineral extraction; and the introduction of exotic plants.

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5 Fascinating Facts About Machu Picchu
  • The name of this ancient city is not Machu Picchu, and it was never really lost.
  • Machu Picchu is incredibly well-preserved and 75% original. ...
  • Machu Picchu is situated in deep in the jungle. ...
  • Much of the construction was done without the use of mortar.


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Besides allowing the Inca to more easily find and fit stones together without mortar, the faults provided other advantages. The fault lines running through the site probably directed melting snow and rainwater to the high-altitude outpost providing water.

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In the Quechua Indian language, “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak” or “Old Mountain.”

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