July 7: Discovery of Machu Picchu

July 7, 1911 marked a milestone in the archaeological and cultural history of Peru and the entire world. It was on this day that Hiram Bingham , an American explorer and archaeologist, made the discovery of one of the most impressive treasures of the ancient Inca civilization: Machu Picchu.

The discovery of Machu Picchu is considered one of the most significant discoveries of the 20th century, and since then it has become one of the most popular and emblematic tourist destinations in South America. This ancient Inca settlement, located high in the Peruvian Andes, more than 2,400 meters above sea level, has captured the imagination of millions of people around the world.

Machu Picchu is a stone citadel that was built around the 15th century, during the height of the Inca Empire. However, despite its historical and cultural importance, it remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. Only the local inhabitants knew of its existence and its exact location.

The history of the discovery of Machu Picchu begins with the explorations of Hiram Bingham in the region of Cusco, in southern Peru. Bingham, a professor at Yale University , was on a relentless search for the fabled "lost city of the Incas." Their goal was to find an ancient Inca city that, according to colonial chronicles, had existed in some remote and unknown part of the mountains.

After several years of research and archaeological expeditions, Bingham finally reached the Urubamba region. Guided by local stories and the help of the locals, he ventured deep into the mountains in search of the lost city. Thus, on July 24, 1911, after days of arduous walking, Bingham and his team arrived at a place that would change history forever.

On that fateful July 7, while exploring the dense mountainous jungle, Bingham and his companions spotted a series of agricultural terraces and a series of stone buildings jutting out from the vegetation. Before his eyes the majesty of Machu Picchu was revealed, a city abandoned and hidden for centuries.

The impact of this discovery was immense. Bingham was amazed by the beauty and architectural perfection of the Inca citadel. Quickly, he realized that he had found something exceptional and that Machu Picchu was invaluable for the understanding of the ancient Inca civilization.

Bingham returned to Machu Picchu several times over the next few years. He carried out more detailed excavations and explorations, recovering numerous artifacts and documents that provided valuable information about the life and traditions of the Incas. His research and publications helped spread the history and importance of Machu Picchu worldwide.

As news of the discovery of Machu Picchu spread, travelers, historians, and archaeologists flocked to explore and study this amazing site. In 1983, UNESCO declared Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site , recognizing its cultural value and its historical importance for humanity.

Today, Machu Picchu receives more than a million visitors a year. Its impressive landscape and its imposing architecture, with its terraces , squares and temples , make this place an archaeological marvel and an unforgettable experience for those who visit it. In addition, the trek through the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered one of the best trekking routes in the world. However, the growing popularity and influx of tourists also pose challenges for the conservation and preservation of Machu Picchu. The pressure on the infrastructure and the surrounding environment requires careful management to ensure the protection of this cultural treasure for future generations.

How is July 7th celebrated?

This day is celebrated in a big way, for example, in the city of Cusco, considered the gateway to Machu Picchu, dresses up for the occasion. The streets are filled with colorful decorations, flags and banners alluding to discovery. Parades, concerts and cultural events are held that show the rich Inca heritage and the importance of Machu Picchu in the country's history.

In Cusco and other nearby cities, traditional ceremonies are also held, in which the local inhabitants pay homage to their ancestors and the wisdom of the Inca culture. These ceremonies include ancestral rituals, music, folk dances and offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) , as a sign of gratitude for the legacy left by the Incas.

One of the most popular ways to celebrate the discovery of Machu Picchu is through music and dance. Folkloric groups and local artists perform on open-air stages, performing traditional melodies and typical dances of the region. These shows are a way to preserve and spread the Inca culture, and they are also an invitation for visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of Machu Picchu's history. In addition, during this special date, thematic walks and excursions are organized that allow tourists and adventurers to explore the Inca Trail route and live the experience of reaching Machu Picchu following in the footsteps of the ancient Incas. These treks are an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy impressive mountain landscapes and live a unique adventure full of excitement and discoveries.

Another way to celebrate July 7 is through exhibitions and academic events that promote the study and dissemination of the history of Machu Picchu. Conferences, symposiums and presentations are organized in which experts in archeology and history share their research and recent discoveries related to this fascinating archaeological site. In addition, the celebration of the discovery of Machu Picchu has also transcended the borders of Peru . In different parts of the world, art exhibitions, documentary screenings and conferences are held to highlight the importance and cultural legacy of Machu Picchu in the history of humanity.