Machu Picchu is an abandoned city high in the Andes that showcases the architectural genius of which civilization?

Machu Picchu is an abandoned city high in the Andes that showcases the architectural genius of which civilization?

• A. Aztec
• B. Inca
• C. Maya
• D. Olmec

Answer: (B)

The main idea is identifying which culture produced Machu Picchu. This city, tucked high in the Peruvian Andes, was built by the Inca around the mid-1400s. Its architectural brilliance shows in the way the stones are precisely cut to fit together without mortar, creating incredibly strong, earthquake-resistant walls. The layout also includes stepped terraces that ingeniously turn steep mountainsides into usable farmland, along with a sophisticated water system that channels and distributes spring water to the city. These features—high-altitude stone masonry, terracing, and integrated water management—are hallmarks of Inca engineering. This helps distinguish it from other civilizations. The Aztecs and Maya built in different regions (Central America) and produced different architectural styles, such as pyramids and ceremonial centers. The Olmec, earlier in the Gulf Coast region, are known for colossal heads rather than Andes-style stonework. So, Machu Picchu exemplifies Inca architectural ingenuity.

The main idea is identifying which culture produced Machu Picchu. This city, tucked high in the Peruvian Andes, was built by the Inca around the mid-1400s. Its architectural brilliance shows in the way the stones are precisely cut to fit together without mortar, creating incredibly strong, earthquake-resistant walls. The layout also includes stepped terraces that ingeniously turn steep mountainsides into usable farmland, along with a sophisticated water system that channels and distributes spring water to the city. These features—high-altitude stone masonry, terracing, and integrated water management—are hallmarks of Inca engineering.

This helps distinguish it from other civilizations. The Aztecs and Maya built in different regions (Central America) and produced different architectural styles, such as pyramids and ceremonial centers. The Olmec, earlier in the Gulf Coast region, are known for colossal heads rather than Andes-style stonework. So, Machu Picchu exemplifies Inca architectural ingenuity.