Andina

Peru: Machu Picchu marks 13 years since it became a new world wonder

AFP

AFP

14:53 | Cusco (Cusco region), Jul. 7.

July 7 marks the 13th anniversary of the day the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

On that day, shouts of joy echoed all over Peru, mainly in Cusco, where a cosmopolitan party took place.


Peruvians participated actively in the voting process, and took the streets as results emerged.



In Cusco, where the ancient city is located, pride and joy overtook not only locals but also inland and foreign visitors.

They gathered at Cusco's main square and in every open area to celebrate the good news.


The Official New 7 Wonders of the World were announced in random order at the Official Declaration Ceremony in Lisbon (Portugal). 

According to New7Wonders' official website, more than 100 million votes were cast worldwide by that time.


The Inca Empire's most representative construction was crowned on July 7 2007, along with the Great Wall (China), the Taj Mahal (India), Petra City (Jordan), the Colosseum (Italy), Christ The Redeemer (Brazil), and the Chichen Itza archaeological site (Mexico).

Machu Picchu

The Historic Sanctuary of Cusco and Peru's premier tourist attraction celebrated its 39th anniversary of creation on January 8, 2020.

The Inca citadel's charm always enchants not only Peruvians but also foreign visitors, and is well deserving of its accolade as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.


Exploring this impressive stone city of spectacular architecture, nestled atop a mountain ridge, constitutes a unique life experience.

Inscribed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites since 1983, the Inca masterpiece of engineering and architecture receives thousands of visitors year after year.

Machu Picchu remained hidden for several years since its construction in the 15th-century. It was first revealed to the world by U.S. explorer Hiram Bingham and, since then, has been carefully restored and preserved for future generations.


Its designation as a historic sanctuary was made official on January 8, 1981, through a supreme decree.


This natural protected area is known globally as the home of impressive archaeological Inca sites as well as historically and culturally significant monuments.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced authorities to suspend tourist visits to Machu Picchu. For its part, the Ministry of Culture has recently established that the maximum capacity will be 2,244 visitors per day.

(END) LZD/MAO/RMB/MVB

Published: 7/7/2020