Machu Picchu is a pre-Columbian Inca site that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Nicknamed “Lost City of the Incas,” the settlement was built in the 15th century and abandoned by the Incas a century after with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors.

Unknown, and therefore, untouched by the conquistadors and those that followed, the site is renowned as a cultural mecca for historians, and is considered sacred ground. Today, the site draws millions of tourists each year who come to marvel at the natural beauty and intricate carvings of this remote landmark of an ancient civilization. Machu Picchu is filled with sights of historical and natural splendor and significance.

The following list gives you a taste of some of the sights you’ll see during your visit to this remarkable Peruvian landmark.

1) Temple of the Sun

Close to the city summit, this spectacular landmark is a work of exquisite dry-fitted stonework, and offers a striking silhouette, especially from the stone staircase in the site’s main plaza. In the center, you’ll see a rock with a straight edge. During the summer solstice, the edge of the rock aligns with the light streaming through the temple’s only window. The Royal Tomb is located just below this site.

2) Temple of the Three Windows

Located on the Sacred Plaza, this temple and the one beside it were most likely used for religious observances. Windows are placed to capture the sun’s rays at specific times of the year, and probably played a role in maintaining the Incan calendar.

3) Temple of the Condor

Designed to resemble a great winged bird, this temple was most likely used to worship the condor god known as Apu Kuntur. The design of this site implies that it was used for a criminal tribunal and possibly also as a site of punishment. A nearby underground tunnel may have led to a prison area.

4) Intihuatana

This stone obelisk structure stands apart from the rest of the surroundings, and likely served as a sacred or even sacrificial site during the winter solstice. Researchers believe it held significance as an astronomical marker or calendar system, used to mark the passage of time.

5) District of the Sun

This site marks the location of Machu Picchu’s primary bathhouse, with fountains that are supplied by underground conduits linked to a spring about 1km away.

6) Waynapicchu

This hill offers panoramic views of the site, and is the location of additional secondary ruins. Because of the remoteness of the site and the time required to reach it, no visitors are permitted on the trail after 1 pm. In addition, no more than 400 visitors are allowed on the trail per day.

7) Moon Temple and the Great Cave. If you’re one of the lucky 400 to make it onto the trail to Waynapicchu, you will be rewarded with more than magnificent vistas if you take the time to visit these two lesser-known sites.

While the ruins may be less spectacular than those of the main site, the trail offers glimpses of native and often rare wildlife. Be warned, though: these trails involve steep unprotected ascents and descents, and some ladder-climbing is required. Steel cables are offered in some areas, but those with a fear of heights may choose to skip this hike. Good shoes and water are essential; the total trip takes about two hours.

These sites, and many more, await visitors to Machu Picchu. To get the most from your visit, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, carry a large water bottle, and be sure to wear lots of sunscreen.

Images courtesy of epicxero, eduardozarate, brianholsclaw, chang-er, jamespreston, kudumomo, egrojpics, 00dann.

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