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Essay / Sacred Inca Sites Machu Picchu
The Inca Empire is often considered one of the last strongholds of South America's indigenous population before the influx from Europe of a more recent civilization with its own lifestyles and customs. , and religions. The town of Machu Picchu – it’s the star of the show when a tourist decides to invest in a breathtaking and educational vacation to Peru. Say no to plagiarism. Get Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original EssayMachu Picchu is known for being a city in which the stones of the structures move and almost dance since it is built on top of two buildings with relatively active fault lines. However, the engineering is impeccable as the ruins remain remarkably well preserved. Much of the construction is completely underground, giving the whole site a very mystical atmosphere, as if it harbors deep secrets. It has been assumed that it was used for ritual ceremonies and sacrifices, much like many other Inca sites. Additionally, the city is also home to the fascinating Temple of the Moon. The Incas diligently followed the movements of the “Mother Moon” or Mamaquilla as they called her because they began and ended their calendar according to the cycle of the moon. The moon had religious significance for the Incas because the moon goddess was third in order of reverence and importance and was also considered a feminine power closer to women and their protection. Macchu Picchu also worshiped the other gods showing special favor. to the Sun God through the symbolic city gate called Inti Punku or “gate of the sun”. There is also a temple dedicated to the sun near the highest point of the city. The “Temple of the Three Windows” is another main attraction with fountains and a temple built to resemble the Condor with its wings outstretched ready to take flight. Although the idea may seem beautiful, historians believe that the Condor was a clever symbolism for the gruesome torture of someone who had sinned. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay A number with Machu Picchu, Peru, it is a city so old that it lacks infrastructure, and yet many people still try to access it. Tourism itself is not necessarily the problem as it brings attention to Peru, but Peru's other attractions still go unrecognized. Normally, communities surrounding attractions and towns benefit from tourism. However, Peruvian communities hardly benefit from tourism because businesses do not give back to the towns surrounding Machu Picchu. This upsets the locals because Machu Picchu is their home, but they do not benefit from its visitors. Fourteen years ago, the ancient city welcomed half a million visitors.