Historical Sites in Peru

Posted by worldtraveler

Tasty pachamancas, alpaca ponchos and flashy folk dances are not the only lingering reminders of Peru’s fascinating past. The country also boasts a number of spectacular ruins that are sure to blow any history buff’s mind and dazzle every visitor passing through. The presence of the Incan culture can be seen all around its different regions, ranging from Machu Picchu in the Andean cloud forest to the ancient city of Caral near the central coast.

Machu Picchu is probably the most famous symbol of the Incan Empire and was built in the mid 15th century. Due to its secluded location it was forgotten for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered in 1911 by American historian Hiram Bingham. RealTravlers Cass and Worth traveled to this marvel last February and were mesmerized by its beauty.

“With eyes still at half-mast we boarded the bus to see the sun rise behind a thick fog. For the first 30 or so minutes in the ruins, we had no idea which way to look through the fog. However, as the mist slowly parted, the timid rationing of the ruin’s appearance made its final unveiling all the more impressive. A deserving member of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is not only a marvel of architectural greatness, but also an example of a deep admiration for the natural world. The stunning temples, citadels and terracing act only to deepen the beauty of the surrounding piercing peaks.” Read the rest of this entry »