Machu Picchu: A Civil Engineering Marvel

by Kenneth R. Wright, Alfredo Valencia Zegarra, Ruth M. Wright

Machu A Civil Engineering Marvel takes readers inside the Lost City of the Incas for a groundbreaking perspective never before seen by tourists or archeologists. Built high in the Andes on a seemingly impossible site, Machu Picchu stands as a testament to Early Native Americans and their ability to plan and build. How was it possible to create a mountain-top city complete with running water, drainage systems, food production, and stone structures so advanced they have endured for over 500 years? Authors Kenneth R. Wright and Alfredo Valencia Zegarra explain these and other mysteries, based on their original engineering and scientific research. A fascinating book, Machu A Civil Engineering Marvel is a must-have for civil engineers, archeologists, armchair travelers, and tourists alike. An illustrated walking guide and detailed map allow readers to become familiar with each building and pathway, and numerous photographs take readers on a breathtaking pictorial adventure.

Genres: Science, History, Engineering

144 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2000

Reviews

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This rating certainly needs an explanation, because it does not reflect the quality of this work. In terms of research, engineering know-how, and detail, this is a five-star read. The authors are knowledgeable engineers with excellent insights into the water distribution and building structures. Data was precise and thorough. Anyone interested in how to maximize a region’s water supply or construct water diversion simply and effectively would benefit from this read. I feel like there is a lot to be learned here in an age so concerned with managing resources. The Incas understood that, and the authors highlight that knowledge.

However, as a non-engineer reader, there were parts that were a bit technical (though not beyond comprehension) and redundant. I wanted more about the overall building process, which is present, but is almost expected to be background knowledge that the reader already has. So clearly, this was not the right book for me to start with, in exploring Machu Picchu. I was struck by the resourcefulness of the builders, working with the land, not against it, using what was on hand to accomplish objectives, using creativity to fit things where they needed to fit. Impressive. The history connected with this people and this place makes Machu Picchu a testament of interrupted attempts at greatness.

I also question the placement of the chapter on Inca history and culture. I felt like it should have been chapter one, not nine. Also, archaeologists seriously need to connect their history with their theories. Any chance Machu Picchu was abandoned because of all the political unrest and infighting going on in the early 1500s?

The written “walking tour” chapter at the end was a bit stilted in an armchair traveler setting, but if I ever visit the site, I would totally take that with me.

Plentiful photos that beg to be in color.

[James · Rating 3 out of 5]

A deep dive into the ancient engineering that allowed Machu Picchu to last over 400 years without maintenance. Like an iceberg, 60+ percent of this work is underground. Civil engineers carefully measure and observe the system and find that it will handle any weather condition thrown at it. It even has proper overflow handling in the case of torrential rains. The photos and illustrations are just OK and the text is a bit dry in spots, but still a decent read.

[Lissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written book detailing how the Inca building at Machu Picchu was constructed. This is a scholarly book, with experiments done to confirm building capabilities such as irrigation and terrace slopes. It includes a walking tour with map of the site.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Concise, not overly technical document about Machu Picchu. This really helped me to grasp the magnitude of what was achieved by the Incas. Perfect reading for a civil engineer about to visit Machu Picchu.