Question
Here is the question : WHAT WAS MACHU PICCHU BUILT TO WITHSTAND?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Invasive pests
- Floods
- Soil erosion
- Earthquakes
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by Incan craftsmen to survive Peru’s regular earthquakes. There is evidence that the structure was subjected to significant earthquakes during construction. Seismic occurrences have never stood a chance against the sophisticated ashlar masonry, a technique that stacks finely cut blocks directly on top of each other with little or no supporting mortar in between.
Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring ancient city nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is not only renowned for its architectural brilliance but also for the remarkable engineering techniques used in its construction. One of the most intriguing aspects of Machu Picchu is its ability to withstand the powerful forces of nature, particularly earthquakes. This remarkable feat of engineering highlights the ingenuity and foresight of the Inca civilization, who designed and built this magnificent city to withstand the seismic activity of the region. In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind Machu Picchu’s resilience against earthquakes and the techniques employed by the Inca builders to ensure its structural integrity.
Machu Picchu was constructed around the 15th century during the height of the Inca Empire. The city was built on a ridge between two towering mountains, surrounded by steep slopes and located in a region known for its seismic activity. The Inca people were well aware of the earthquake-prone nature of the area and took great care in designing and constructing their buildings to withstand the powerful tremors that periodically shook the land.
One of the key techniques employed by the Inca builders to protect Machu Picchu from earthquakes was the use of a sophisticated architectural style known as “ashlar.” This technique involved fitting stones together so precisely that mortar was unnecessary. The stones were cut with such precision that they fit tightly against each other, creating a sturdy and interlocking structure. This meticulous craftsmanship allowed the buildings to withstand the lateral forces generated during an earthquake, minimizing the risk of collapse.
Additionally, the Inca builders incorporated several other design elements to enhance the seismic resistance of the structures. The walls of Machu Picchu were slightly inclined, leaning inward at the top. This technique, known as “trapezoidal shape,” provided additional stability and prevented the walls from toppling over during an earthquake. The Inca architects also utilized trapezoidal doorways and niches, which further strengthened the overall structure and distributed the seismic forces more efficiently.
The Inca builders were also mindful of the foundation upon which Machu Picchu was constructed. They carefully selected and prepared the bedrock, ensuring its stability and strength. The foundations were built on solid rock, and large stones were laid as a base to distribute the weight of the structures evenly. This strategic foundation design helped to absorb and dissipate the energy produced by earthquakes, preventing significant damage to the buildings.
Furthermore, the location of Machu Picchu itself played a crucial role in its ability to withstand earthquakes. The city is situated on a ridge between two mountains, which provided a natural buffer against seismic activity. The surrounding mountains acted as a shield, absorbing and deflecting seismic waves, thus reducing the impact on the city. This strategic positioning, coupled with the Inca’s meticulous engineering techniques, contributed to the overall resilience of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the Inca’s incredible foresight and engineering prowess. Despite centuries of seismic activity, the city remains remarkably intact, preserving its awe-inspiring architecture and captivating visitors from around the world. The ability of Machu Picchu to withstand earthquakes not only showcases the Inca’s mastery of construction techniques but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of their civilization.
Machu Picchu, the ancient city nestled in the Andes Mountains, was ingeniously built to withstand the powerful forces of earthquakes. The Inca builders employed sophisticated architectural techniques, such as the precise ashlar construction style, trapezoidal shapes, and strategic foundation design, to ensure the structural integrity of the city. The location itself, nestled between mountains, provided a natural shield against seismic activity. Today, Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the Inca’s remarkable engineering skills and serves as a reminder of their enduring legacy and the harmonious integration of human ingenuity with the forces of nature.