Macchu Picchu (2). PERU

The Incas started building the Machu Picchu around the year 1400, but abandoned it as an official site for the Inca rulers a century later at the time of the Spanish Conquest. Although known locally, it was unknown to the outside world before being brought to international attention in 1911 by the American historian Hiram Bingham. Since then, Machu Picchu has been known as one of the wonders of the world. Photos from summer 2009.