After breakfast at hotel took train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu following the Urubamba River with spectacular views of the Andes. We would have taken the train form a station a city closer if the floods from last year had not eliminated part of the tracks and roadway. As it was, only a 20 minute bus ride over a new “path” along the river to catch the train.
Along the way, went thru several climate zones; from alpine to tropical. Checked into Inkaterra Hotel, another w-o-w place. Orchids and birds everywhere. Then took bus to the Machu Picchu Ruins with lunch planned at local restaurant near the archeological site. Continued the afternoon guided field trip in and around Machu Picchu Ruins.
This ancient Inca city was “rediscovered” in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a Yale graduate. With the group was a U.S. senator fascinated with Inca archaeology. Bingham found Machu Picchu, with the help of a local farmer who knew about the ruins, while searching for Vilcabamba and Vitcos.
Bingham hypothesized that the site was a "citadel," existing for strategic and defense purposes. He also speculated that the site was a refuge for Cusco's Virgins of the Sun, based upon the finding of skulls there, although not scientifically classified as female. Breakthroughs in archaeology since 1985 have, taken as a whole, supported the emerging view of Machu Picchu as a ceremonial and administrative center for a very populous region. Machu Picchu was built, flourished, and then fell into demise within a period of 100 years.
Today, a special day, will add a few more photos to the story.
Photo 1. Looking out room window can see clouds or maybe water vapor coming down from ice caps on mountains?
Photo 2. Stopped into the chapel on the hotel property, formerly a convent from Spanish times. Am saying “thanks for the memories.” I am here at Machu Picchu area – finally. Had to also say thanks that we were not ill like a few members of our group. They went to town for outside medical help. “What if“ you had all these plans and got so close, but couldn’t go farther?
Photo 3. Breakfast was tasty. Even saw the ill ones from yesterday looking much better. They said they were glad to have better health. They have returned and are “ready” to visit their “dream.”
Photo 4. Yep, that’s me – I am here – Machu Picchu!
Photo 5. Carol too. She set things up. I am just there “for the ride” of my life (-:
Photo 6. Wow, it does look just like the pictures.
Click here for today's online photo album.
https://picasaweb.google.com/magwheel44/2012GIMPDay13Of17
