Ep 5. Machu Picchu: City in the Sky

Machu Picchu: City in the Sky is the fifth episode of the third season of the popular documentary series Ancient Mysteries. This episode takes viewers on a journey to the incredible Machu Picchu, one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring archaeological sites in the world.

Located deep in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu was built by the Inca civilization around 1450 CE. It remained hidden from the outside world until 1911, when American archeologist Hiram Bingham stumbled upon it while exploring the area. Since then, Machu Picchu has become a major tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors each year.

But what exactly was the purpose of Machu Picchu? Why was it built, and how did the Inca manage to construct such an impressive city on such challenging terrain?

In this episode of Ancient Mysteries, experts and historians attempt to answer these questions and shed light on the many mysteries of Machu Picchu. Using cutting-edge technology and sophisticated archaeological methods, they explore the ruins of the city and examine its buildings, roads, and intricate stonework to uncover clues about its purpose and construction.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Machu Picchu is its location. Built on a steep slope 2,500 meters above sea level, the city is surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests that make it difficult to access. Yet, the Inca managed to build an intricate system of terraces, staircases, and roads that connected the different parts of the city and allowed its inhabitants to move around freely.

Experts believe that Machu Picchu may have been a sacred site, used for religious ceremonies and rituals by the Inca. The city's layout and buildings suggest a strong connection to the natural world, with many structures aligned with the sun, moon, and stars. The city also has several temples and shrines dedicated to the Inca gods and goddesses, indicating that it may have been a center of spiritual worship.

Another mystery of Machu Picchu is its construction. The city is made up of thousands of large, precisely cut stones that were transported from distant quarries and fitted together with incredible precision. Some stones weigh as much as 50 tons, making their movement and placement a remarkable feat of engineering.

Experts believe that the Inca used a combination of ramps, pulleys, and manpower to move the stones, but the exact methods are still unclear. The fact that the city was built without the use of iron tools or beasts of burden only adds to the mystery of how it was constructed.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the city and its surroundings, including the breathtaking views from the top of Huayna Picchu, the mountain overlooking Machu Picchu. Interviews with historians, archaeologists, and locals provide valuable insights into the city's history and significance, making this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology.

In conclusion, Machu Picchu: City in the Sky is a captivating exploration of one of the world's most intriguing archaeological sites. With its stunning visuals and expert analysis, this episode of Ancient Mysteries offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world and the many mysteries that still remain unsolved.