Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail

Covering thousands of miles in the Andes, the Inca Trail was the backbone of the ancient empire, connecting the millions of people who lived under its rule. The jewel in its crown, Machu Picchu, was recently named one of the seven wonders of the modern world. But who were the Incas? What was the purpose of their complex road system? And why did they build a stone citadel on a mountain ridge, only to abandon it a century later?  A ⁠Noiser⁠ podcast production, written by Jo Furniss. With thanks to Javier Puente, associate professor of Latin American studies at Smith College in Massachusetts. For ad-free listening, exclusive content, and early access to new episodes across the Noiser network, join ⁠⁠Noiser+⁠⁠. Now available for Apple and Android users. Click the subscription banner at the top of the feed to get started. Or go to ⁠⁠noiser.com/subscriptions⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices