Yes, you will need a GPS to find this next one. It is Machu Picchu, often referred to as the “lost city of the Incas”. Located on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley in Peru Machu Picchu was built around 1400 A.D. as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti.

Although known locally, it was unknown to the outside world before being brought to international attention in 1911 by the American historian Hiram Bingham (Yale University).

In 1954 film “Secret of the Incas” was filmed at Machu Picchu, it was featured prominently in the 2004 film, “The Motorcycle Diaries”, and NOVA TV Documentary "Ghosts of Machu Picchu."

Since then, Machu Picchu has become an important tourist attraction. So much so, that damage was occurring to the site and entrance restrictions had to be limited to a single entrance, at 7am and 10am only and only 400 visitors per day were allowed in.

In 1912 and again in 1915, archeologist from Yale University excavated treasures from Machu Picchu—ceramic vessels, silver statues, jewelry, and even human bones—and took them from Peru to Yale University in the United States for further study, supposedly for a period of 18 months. Yale has retained the artifacts until now, under the argument that Peru did not have the infrastructure or proper conditions to take care of the pieces. The president of Peru has charged Yale of theft of national treasures.

On 19 June 2008, National Geographic Society's vice-president Terry Garcia was quoted by the daily publication, La Republica. "We were part of this agreement. National Geographic was there, we know what was said, the objects were lent and should be returned."

The note featured today is a 100 Soles De Oro from Peru issued in

The Republic of Peru is located on the Pacific coast of South America. ENJOY!!!

Languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymará
Religions: Roman Catholic
Status: UN Country

(Front) Arms at l. Tupac Amaru at r. (Back) Machu Picchu village at ctr.