Machu Picchu is a beautiful and enigmatic historical site located in the Andes Mountains in Peru. The Inca civilization built Machu Picchu around 1450 AD, and the reasons behind its construction have been shrouded in mystery ever since. As educators, it is essential that we teach our students about the value and significance of this site and why it was built.
Teaching students about the history of Machu Picchu can be a fantastic way to teach them about ancient civilizations and their importance. It is a place that has fascinated visitors and students for centuries and has been a topic of academic research for scholars. The ancient city was built on a mountain ridge and was hidden from the world for centuries until it was discovered in 1911 by American historian Hiram Bingham.
One of the main reasons for building Machu Picchu was its strategic location on a mountain ridge. The high altitude provided the Inca civilization with a significant advantage in terms of defense, making it nearly impossible for attackers to attack. Moreover, Machu Picchu was built as a royal settlement where the Inca kings could escape from the political turmoil and crisis of the time. Machu Picchu was also a ceremonial site, renowned for its religious and astronomical significance.
Teaching students about the reasons behind Machu Picchu’s construction provides a great opportunity for interdisciplinary learning. Students can learn about various aspects of history, geology, and architecture. Students can also learn about different traditional beliefs and rituals of the Inca civilization by understanding the significance of Machu Picchu in their lives.
A classroom project based on Machu Picchu can be a great learning experience for students. The project can be designed to include a variety of activities, such as researching the history and significance of Machu Picchu, creating 3D models of the city, drawing site plans and architectural details of buildings, and comparing the similarities and differences between the Inca civilization and other ancient civilizations.
In conclusion, teaching our students about the reasons behind Machu Picchu’s construction is critical as it is a significant historical site, giving insight into the lives of the Inca civilization. It is also beneficial for students as it involves interdisciplinary and collaborative learning, which helps to strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills. Machu Picchu is a treasure trove of knowledge and history that should be explored and celebrated by students and educators alike.
