Who Made Machu Picchu? (The History Behind Peru’s Greatest Ruins)

Everything You Need To Know About Who Made Machu Picchu

The Civilization Behind The Legendary Citadel Of Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu was built by the mighty Inca Empire around 1450, who by that point had already assumed control over most of Peru – and much of the rest of the South American continent.

Constructed under the orders of Emperor Pachacutec, it is believed that it took just 30-50 years to complete Machu Picchu – which is quite a statement seeing how expansive these ruins are, as well as the difficult geography and topography they were built in (not to mention that the original mountain where the ruins stand was actually first removed to lay the foundations for this site).

The Inca used many advanced architectural techniques of their times to create the site, with important aqueduct systems and earthquake-proof foundations in place. This helped the site remain in such good condition even once it was abandoned for centuries – and what we can see today during an overnight Machu Picchu Tour is a great representation of what it was once like during the ancient times of the Inca.

What Purpose Did Machu Picchu Serve For Them?

Machu Picchu was primarily made as a resort for the Emperor Pachacutec and other royal and noble classes, which was seen as one of the most elite and important structures ever built by the Inca (which explained why it was built so quickly). 

Given only those of an exclusive status were allowed to enter, this meant that the Emperor Pachacutec and high ranking people could easily escape the bustle of Cusco and enjoy a scenic mountain retreat in the jungle-laden lower Andes. This also showed off the Emperor’s dominance and strength with such a mighty site to other factions or smaller tribes that were still living in Peru during this time.

It’s also believed that Machu Picchu also served as an important spiritual and ceremonial center – with prominent structures such as the Temple of the Sun which honored Inti – the Inca’s Sun God. This is quite a common theme in many of the ruins found in the region, such as those found on the Four Day Inca Trail such as Runkurakay, Intipata and Sayacmarca – which each served their own unique purpose for the Incas.

What Happened To Machu Picchu, And Its Modern-Day Rediscovery

After its creation around 1450, Machu Picchu – despite all its grandeur and importance for the Inca civilization – was only used for 80 years until it was abandoned in 1532. 

This was because the Spanish Empire arrived in Peru in 1531 and quickly began conquering many parts of the country, so the site was left as the Inca retreated either for safety or to engage in war. Given the site was located on top of a remote mountain far from Cusco, it was never discovered by the Spanish – as jungle foliage quickly regrew and covered the site entirely. Machu Picchu would then remain hidden for centuries.

However in 1911 (some 370 years later), American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered the site during his expeditions in the Cusco region. While actually looking for the site of Vilcabamba, it’s said that local children and indigenous tribes still knew of the site in secret – and were the ones that showed him the path to Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions About Who Made Machu Picchu

Below we’ll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about who made Machu Picchu, as well as anything else important that you need to know.

Who Actually Discovered Machu Picchu?

After being left abandoned for almost 400 years and consumed by the surrounding jungle, it was American explorer Hiram Bingham who rediscovered Machu Picchu – guided by local children and indigenous groups in 1911. Bingham’s efforts have certainly not gone unnoticed either – with a museum made in his honor close to Aguas Calientes, as well as the luxury Hiram Bingham train that operates between Cusco and this region.

Who Owns Machu Picchu Now?

While Machu Picchu is currently owned by the Peruvian state, it has been quite a complex journey since its rediscovery. From 1911 all the way up until 2019, there were many legal battles between the progression of ownership by the Peruvian government, and local families who claimed that the site was in their rights. Finally in 2019, the Peruvian state won the case – and Machu Picchu has therefore remained a publicly owned site.

Is Machu Picchu Older Than The Pyramids?

No, Machu Picchu is not older than the pyramids of Egypt – and not even close either. The Inca citadel was built around 1450 A.D (roughly 550 years ago), while the pyramids of Egypt were built way back in 2580 B.C (which is over 4500 years ago). This makes the pyramids roughly 4000 years older than the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

Overview Of Who Made Machu Picchu

And that’s all for this guide on who made Machu Picchu.

Like with many of the other ruins found in the Cusco and Sacred Valley regions, Machu Picchu was an extraordinary invention – which used incredible architectural feats and advanced techniques. It was the Inca civilization who was behind the creation of this sacred citadel, and despite being abandoned just some 80 years after its creation, its ruins and history live on in almost perfect condition.

Looking to explore Machu Picchu during your time in Peru? Here at AB Expeditions, we operate an Unforgettable Overnight Machu Picchu Tour From Cusco, which includes all private transport to and from your hotel, the scenic train ride, a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes as well as one of our expert local tour guides to lead your group.