After more than 20 years of legal battles, it has been confirmed that
, Culture Minister Luis Jaime Castillo has affirmed.
"Today, the final verdict on a dispute between a family, claiming to own
Machu Picchu, and the Peruvian State was delivered in Cusco. The case has, as a whole, over 20 years of legal proceedings and, finally,
the verdict was in favor of the State," the official underlined.
Likewise, Castillo recalled that, for many years, diverse families —that held some kind of property or asset in the Inca citadel of
Machu Picchu— had submitted lawsuits claiming ownership or demanding enormous compensation.
Finally, the disputes were resolved in last instance and, thus,
Machu Picchu belongs to all Peruvians.
"In Peru, archaeological heritage is owned by the State, and sometimes this property is fought over (…)," he added.
Lastly, the minister mentioned this particular dispute dates back to 2003.
(END) TMC/DTK/MVB