The ancient civilization famous for its city of Machu Picchu is the Inca civilization. This remarkable society flourished in the Andean region of South America from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Machu Picchu, often called the "Lost City of the Incas," is situated high in the Andes Mountains and is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and agricultural terracing. The site is believed to have been a royal estate or religious site, reflecting the Incas’ advanced engineering, astronomy, and agricultural practices. Today, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.