15:29 | Cusco (Cusco region), Jan. 8.
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu on Friday marked its 40th anniversary since being declared a natural protected area by the State so as to protect its unique biodiversity, as well as an important set of archaeological sites including the emblematic Inca citadel of
Machu Picchu.
Created on January 8, 1981, the Historic Sanctuary is located in the Machu Picchu district of Urubamba Province (Cusco region). It covers an area of 32,592 ha.
The place is internationally recognized for its impressive Inca archaeological complexes, as well as the archaeological sites and monuments of high historical-cultural value.
Moreover, the sanctuary has an important environmental value, including wooded areas, steep mountains, and snow-capped peaks.
The area lies in a transition zone between the Andean and Amazonian regions and is part of a narrow strip of transition between both ecosystems. In addition, a terrain of abrupt relief and steep slopes predominates.
The Historic Sanctuary is situated in an area of exceptional geographical characteristics ranging from snowy peaks above 6,000 m.a.s.l. to the most humid and hottest area of Urubamba River, which divides the sanctuary in two by forming the Torontoy Canyon under 2,000 m.a.s.l.
Machu Picchu is Peru's most popular tourist attraction, a World Heritage site, and one of the world's new seven wonders.
(END) LZD/RMB/MVB
Published: 1/8/2021