The ancient people who built the famous city of Machu Picchu are the Incas. This incredible architectural marvel was constructed in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti. Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and possibly a religious site, showcasing the Incas' advanced engineering skills, agricultural practices, and architectural techniques. It is located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru and is known for its sophisticated dry-stone construction that has withstood earthquakes. Rediscovered in the early 20th century, Machu Picchu remains a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Inca civilization.