Peru’s Ministry of Culture is reinforcing conservation control in Machu Picchu, iconic citadel in the Peruvian Andes established in 1450, recognized as a mixed - use UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its spectacular architecture, sophisticated stonework, with buildings, terraces and ramps that integrate seamlessly with the steep mountainous landscape, through Andean cosmovision principle (harmonu with nature), active restoration of Inca structures, mandatory guided tours and designated paths, strict visitor limits and educational programs that teach responsible behaviour.
All these operations are managed by Peruvian authorities in collaboration with UNESCO to balance heritage preservation with sustainable tourism, although tensions exist between state conservation policies and local communities.
The Minister of Culture, Alfredo Luna Briceño, recently supervised the Llaqta of Machu Picchu, accompanied by technical teams from the sector, with the aim of collecting information in the field of the main aspects that affect the ,management of the site and arranging concrete actions aimed at its integral improvement.
The inspection was focused on strengthening the conservation and preservation of the emblematic monument, with the aim to optimize the visit circuits, improving tourist signage, reinforcing the safety of visitors and workers, as well as improving the ticket sales and control process, for the benefit of an orderly, safe and sustainable experience.
During the visit, the Minister and the technical team pointed out that one of the goals of the transitional government is to leave a clear and technically supported roadmap, in addition to promoting priority strategic actions that allow Machu Picchu to be kept in optimal conditions, guaranteeing the balance between heritage conservation, responsible tourist use and local development.
In this contest the Ministry of Culture head highlighted the articulated work that has been developed with other sectors of the State, in particular with the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP), attached to the Ministry of the Environment, and with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR), in order to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated management of the Historic Sanctuary.
As part of the work agenda, the Minister also supervised the service of sale of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu that is provided at the Machpicchu Pueblo Cultural Center, where the procedures of attention to the public, the control mechanisms, the information provided to visitors and the operational conditions of the service were evaluated, with the aim of strengthening transparency, order and efficiency for the access to the site.
The Minister toured circuits 1, 2 and 3, including the Inca Bridge, accompanied by authorities and specialists responsible for the administration, conservation, and surveillance of the area. During the tour, visitor flows, critical security points, the clarity and adequacy of signage, as well as the operational conditions linked to access control and ticket sales mechanism were evaluated.
The specialists of the sector reported on the state of conservation of emblematic elements such as the monolithic sculpture of Intihuatana and the Inca terraces currently in the process of refurbishment, highlighting the importance of joint work between the Culture, Environment and Tourism sectors to protect both the cultural heritage and the natural environment that make up the outstanding universal value of Machu Picchu.
At the end of the inspection, the Minister of Culture held a meeting with the conservation and surveillance staff of the Llaqta, whon he recognized for their commitment and vocation of service, reaffirming that their work is key to ensure the protection of Machu Picchu and the responsible transmission of its legacy to future generations.
Key Cultural and Management Strategies:
• Andean Cosmovision: Promoting Inca principle of harmony, respect, and reciprocity with nature teaches visitors sustainable practices, reinforcing conservation messages.
• Integrated Management: The Culture Ministry collaborates with Environment and Tourism sectors to create comprehensive plans, ensuring cultural heritage and natural environments and protected together.
Visitor Management:
• New Circuits and Entry Points: New routes spread visitors out, easing congestion and minimising impact.
• “Tu Boleto” (Digital Ticketing): A state ,-, run platform manages ticket sales, reduces informal intermediaries, and helps fromalize tourism work.
• Increased Fees: Higher entry and Inca Trail fees fund preservation and discourage overcrowding.
• Education and Signage: Interpretive ,,signs and site staff educate visitors on waste management, wildlife, and fire prevention, aligning with the site’s sustainable history.
• Collaborative Governance: Multi -sectoral committees ,(Ministries, Regional Government, Municipality) develop and implement management strategies.
Cultural Influence on Conservation:
• Inca Engineering: The site’s own sustainable construction (ashlar masonry, flexible design) serves as a living example of environmental integration.
• Community Involvement: Local guides and communities play a vital role in promoting responsible tourism and cultural continuity.
These efforts aim to make Machu Picchu a model for responsible tourism, balancing its role as a global heritage site with the urgent need for conservation, as highlighted by recent government initiatives and sustainability goals.
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