Machu Picchu is a citadel built by the Inca’s during the 15th century, located on a mountain ridge approximately 2420 metres above sea level. Most archaeologists believe that the site was built as an estate for Pachacuti, the Inca emperor at the time, however it was abandoned a century later during the Spanish conquest. Because of the high status of the citadel, it was mostly home to members of Pachacuti’s lineage, religious elite, and highly specialised artisans. It was thought to have housed up to 1000 inhabitants when at its peak. In terms of farming and agriculture Machu Picchu thrived, utilising hundreds of incredibly well engineered man-made terraces, built to ensure good drainage and soil fertility.