What are some surprising facts about Machu Picchu? Machu Picchu was never truly lost, was probably built as a royal Inca retreat in the 15th century, and showcases remarkably sophisticated stonework and engineering. Today, visitors explore the archaeological site through designated circuits and can choose additional mountain routes for different perspectives of the sanctuary.
Set in a dramatic landscape of mountains and tropical rainforest, the 15th century city of Machu Picchu is a destination that’s surrounded by mystery. The town displays some of the most artistic and sophisticated architectural feats of the ancient world although it was was unknown to the modern world until the early 1900’s. And, they’re still discovering more about the history, culture and construction of this incredible place. Interested to know a little more? Here’s some of the best Machu Picchu secrets exposed!
Key Takeaways: Secrets & Surprising Facts About Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu was never truly a “lost city”—although Hiram Bingham brought international attention to the site in 1911, local people knew of Machu Picchu before his arrival, and evidence indicates it had occasionally been inhabited and visited for centuries.
- The Incas engineered Machu Picchu for its challenging mountain environment—its precisely fitted stonework, retaining structures, foundations, and sophisticated drainage helped the complex endure earthquakes and centuries of heavy rainfall.
- Machu Picchu was likely an important royal retreat associated with Inca emperor Pachacuti—rather than a conventional city, evidence suggests it served Inca elites while also holding religious significance.
- Visiting Machu Picchu today requires choosing the right route in advance—Peru currently organizes visits through three main circuits comprising 10 routes, including separate routes for Machu Picchu Mountain and Waynapicchu.
1. Machu Picchu Was Never Really “Lost”
Although Hiram Bingham brought Machu Picchu to international attention after arriving there in 1911, he did not “discover” an unknown city. Local residents already knew of the site, and evidence shows Machu Picchu had been visited and occasionally inhabited long before Bingham's arrival. Bingham’s theory was later proved wrong when Gene Savoy discovered the real lost city, Espiritu Pampa in 1964.
2. Machu Picchu Was Known Locally Before Hiram Bingham Arrived
To prevent a probable looting of Machu Picchu by the Spanish, the Incans burned the forest surrounding the town so that the re-growth would cover up access trails. The Spanish never discovered the town and it was unknown to outsiders until Bingham’s visit in 1911. Although some believe that the Incas abandoned the town, three families were living in the city when it was discovered, leading some to believe it was never actually forgotten.
3. Machu Picchu's Stonework Was Remarkably Resilient to Earthquakes
Another one of the Machu Picchu secrets is that the Incas carefully designed buildings to withstand the frequent earthquakes that would rattle the town situated on top of two fault lines. An ancient engineering technique called ‘ashlar masonry’ was used to cut rocks to sit together perfectly without the need for mortar. During an earthquake, the stones ‘dance’ in place, settling back into their original spot after the tremors stop.
4. 60% of the Infrastructure is Underground
While tourists marvel at the impressive and beautiful feats of engineering, it’s estimated that 60% of the towns construction is underground. The Incas invested in deep building foundations and an extensive crushed rock drainage system to cope with the wet seasons weather.
5. There’s More Than One Way to Experience Machu Picchu
If you don’t want to queue for hours to be one of the 400 people to make the 60-minute climb Huayna Picchu, look to the Machu Picchu Mountain. Not only is it twice as tall as Huayna Picchu at 1,640ft, it offers spectacular views of the Urubamba River coiling its way around the entire ancient city.
6. Machu Picchu Was Likely a Royal Inca Retreat
Some archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was designed as a resort town for the royal family to escape the busy city of Cuzco.
Want to learn more about Machu Picchu secrets? Learn about Machu Picchu Tours for a detailed history of the town and its construction.