14 Gravity-Defying Cities Perched on Cliffs and Mountainsides

4. Machu Picchu, Peru: The Lost City of the Incas

High in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is a testament to the ingenuity and vision of the Inca civilization. This ancient city, perched on a mountain ridge above the Sacred Valley, is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 and has since captivated the imagination of adventurers and historians alike. The city's precise stonework and sophisticated terracing demonstrate the Incas' mastery of engineering and agriculture. Visitors can explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows, each offering insight into the spiritual and cultural life of the Inca. The journey to Machu Picchu is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, with the Inca Trail providing a challenging but rewarding trek through stunning landscapes.