Machu Picchu (1911)

Machu Picchu, rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, stands as one of archaeology's most spectacular finds. This 15th-century Inca citadel perched high in the Andes remained remarkably preserved, hidden for centuries under dense vegetation. Its sophisticated dry-stone construction, astronomical alignments, and terraced agriculture reveal the Inca Empire's advanced engineering. The site's purpose—whether royal estate, religious sanctuary, or astronomical observatory—remains debated. Machu Picchu's dramatic mountain setting and mysterious abandonment have captivated the world, offering unparalleled insights into Inca civilization while becoming South America's most iconic archaeological treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.