Wayna+Picchu

= Wayna Picchu  =

Wayna Picchu is a steep, tall mountain behind Machu Picchu. It is also known as Huayna Picchu or Wayna Pikchu. But no matter what it’s called, all the names can be translated to “Young Peak.” Wayna Picchu is 860 feet higher than Machu Picchu and only 400 visitors are allowed in each day because of the difficult climb.

Wayna Picchu is famous for the “Temple Of The Moon” which is located at the rear of Wayna Picchu. It lies on the north side 1,280 feet below the summit. The Temple of the Moon was rediscovered in 1935, but dates back 1,500 years. The purpose of the temple isn’t known and because of this there are many theories about its purpose. Some people believe it was used to honor the mountains and the gods. Others think that it was used as a ceremonial bathing complex. People also believe that it could have been used as a lookout post.

When you go to Wayna Picchu today, you will find it lies unchanged and well preserved. The Inca Trail is vertical and narrow because they are from the times of the Incas. The Temple of the Moon is exactly the same from the carvings to the doors they made for the gods to pass through. There aren’t any ruins on the top of Wayna Picchu because the peak isn’t flat. Even though there aren’t any ruins the view makes the climb worthwhile.

By: April Lanka