Question
Here is the question : WHY IS IT BELIEVED MACHU PICCHU SURVIVED THE SPANISH CONQUEST?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Soldiers wanted it for themselves
- It was hidden from view
- The structure was very sound
- To make a political statement
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Machu Picchu is famed for its superb earthquake-resistant design, yet it is thought that the ancient Inca citadel was hidden from the Spanish conquest of 1532 due to its location high in Peru’s Andes Mountains. It was abandoned for unknown reasons about the time the conquerors came, and no mention of Machu Picchu was ever mentioned in conquering chronicles.
Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring ancient Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, has long captured the imagination of explorers, historians, and travelers alike. One of the most intriguing aspects of Machu Picchu is how it managed to survive the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, unlike many other Inca cities. The answer lies in the fact that Machu Picchu was hidden from view, concealed within the dense mountainous terrain. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why Machu Picchu remained undiscovered and explore the fascinating circumstances that allowed it to endure through the centuries.
When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in South America in the 16th century, their primary objective was to expand their empire and exploit the region’s wealth. Led by Francisco Pizarro, they targeted the Inca Empire, a vast and prosperous civilization that stretched across a significant portion of present-day Peru and neighboring countries. The Inca Empire, with its advanced infrastructure, intricate road network, and immense wealth, became an enticing target for the Spanish conquistadors.
As the Spanish forces advanced, they encountered various Inca cities and settlements, most of which fell under their control. However, Machu Picchu remained hidden and untouched, escaping the grasp of the conquistadors. There are several reasons why this ancient citadel managed to evade detection:
Remote Location: Machu Picchu is situated in a remote and rugged region of the Andes Mountains, surrounded by steep cliffs, deep valleys, and dense vegetation. Its secluded location made it challenging to access and difficult to spot from a distance. The winding mountain trails leading to Machu Picchu were treacherous, dissuading casual explorers and deterring Spanish conquistadors from venturing into the area.
Strategic Positioning: The Incas chose the location of Machu Picchu strategically. It was built on a ridge between two mountains, providing natural defenses against potential invaders. The steep slopes and cliffs acted as a barrier, making it arduous for outsiders to approach the citadel without prior knowledge of its existence.
Absence of Road Connections: Unlike other major Inca cities, Machu Picchu did not have direct road connections to the Inca road network. This further contributed to its isolation and limited its exposure to external influences. The absence of well-defined roads leading to Machu Picchu made it less accessible and less likely to be discovered by the Spanish conquistadors.
Local Knowledge and Secrecy: The local Quechua-speaking population, who were familiar with the region, played a crucial role in keeping Machu Picchu hidden. They possessed knowledge of the area’s intricate pathways and were entrusted with safeguarding the citadel’s existence. The Quechua people, with their deep reverence for their ancestors and heritage, maintained the secrecy surrounding Machu Picchu, ensuring its protection from outsiders.
Machu Picchu’s concealment from the Spanish conquistadors meant that it remained relatively untouched for centuries. It was only in 1911, when American explorer Hiram Bingham stumbled upon the site, that its existence was brought to the attention of the world. Bingham’s expedition and subsequent archaeological research shed light on the remarkable achievements of the Inca civilization and unveiled the hidden splendor of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu stands as an extraordinary testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. Its preservation and restoration efforts have ensured that future generations can witness the grandeur of this ancient citadel. The site’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its inclusion as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World have further solidified its status as a global treasure.
the survival of Machu Picchu amidst the Spanish conquest can be attributed to its remote location, strategic positioning, absence of road connections, and the efforts of the local population to keep it hidden. These factors, combined with the challenging terrain and dense vegetation, shielded the ancient citadel from discovery until the early 20th century. Machu Picchu’s remarkable preservation and subsequent recognition have made it an iconic symbol of the Inca civilization and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to delve into the mysteries of the past.