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So to the final day of the Inca Trail and the lost city of Machu Picchu.
For all their glory, the Incans only really bossed things for around a 100 years period. Their thirst for expansion began around 1438. The empire grew exponentially over the next 25 years. It peaked in size at this point and it was during this time that scores of mountain top citadels, including Machu Picchu, were built.
In 1532 the Spaniard, Francisco Pizarro, lead a defeat of the Incan kings. Mounted on horseback, protected by armour and swinging steel swords, the Spanish fire power was virtually unstoppable. Despite sporadic rebellions, the Inca Empire was forced to retreat to the mountains and jungle i.e. Machu Picchu, and never made or back to their glory days.
The history of Machu Picchu is sketchy. There are various different theories about how prominent it was in Incan culture but I like the idea that it was the last refuge when the Spanish were hot on their heels so I'll stick with that!
Given the exceptional high quality of the stonework (cos i know all about that sort if thing!) it's said the Machu Picchu must once have been a vitally important ceremonial centre.
But enough with the history lesson....Machu Picchu is immense. We woke at ridiculous o'clock in order to watch watch the sunrise over the city from 'Intipunka' (sun gate). This gave us the classic postcard view of the city before all the lazy day trippers got on site. The initially sight of the city made all the previous long days trekking worth while - unreal!
Within the city itself you could explore; the temple of the sun, the royal tomb and the temple of the condor. It was also interesting to see how the Incans had constructed many terrace to enable them to cultivate crops on the otherwise inhospitable steep mountainsides.
This place should defo be a wonder of the world or something - check out my bake book for some pickies! I'm sure I didn't describe it very well!
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