The ancient culture that built the Machu Picchu citadel was the Inca civilization. This remarkable site, located in present-day Peru, was constructed in the 15th century under the reign of Emperor Pachacuti. Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and religious site, showcasing the Incas' advanced engineering skills and architectural design. Its stunning location and intricate stonework reflect the Incas' connection to their environment and their belief systems. Rediscovered in 1911 by historian Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu is now renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Inca heritage.