Machu Picchu was founded in 1450, when its construction was completed by the Inca civilization, the most powerful indigenous empire in South America before the arrival of Europeans. The site is situated high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, sitting 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level, as it overlooks the lush Urubamba River Valley. In the 16th century, the city was abandoned due to the Spanish conquests of the Aztec and Inca Empires from 1519-1572, but it remained hidden from the outside world until explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911. In the present day, Machu Picchu is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is regarded as one of the most key archaeological sites in the world. Through its terraces, temples, and stonework, they reveal the secrets behind the Inca’s engineering, agriculture, and astronomy. Overall, Machu Picchu’s setting and preservation make it a strong symbol of Peru’s powerful heritage.