The inquiry concerns the period during which the site of Machu Picchu ceased to be inhabited by its original occupants. Determining this timeframe is challenging due to a lack of direct written records from the Inca civilization. Archaeological evidence and historical analysis offer the best insights into its abandonment.
Understanding the circumstances surrounding the site’s desertion is vital for comprehending the dynamics of the Inca Empire and its decline. This knowledge can illuminate the social, political, and environmental factors that potentially contributed to the abandonment of this significant settlement. Furthermore, it shapes interpretations of the site’s purpose and its place within Inca society.