New discoveries boost Peru's cultural tourism

A discovery by British, American and Peruvian explorers has led to an exciting new tourism site. The explorers joined forces in an adventure that has led to the discovery of a pre-Colombian citadel in the district of Santa Teresa, in the Peruvian province of Convención, near Cuzco. The archaeological complex has been dubbed Corihuayrachina ('gold melted by the wind'), a site the explorers believe was one of the final strongholds of the Inca rebels who sought refuge in the Vilcabamba jungle region.

In another discovery, more than 2,000 mummies have been unearthed by the National Geographic Society in the Huaquerones-Puruchuco archaeological site in Túpac Amaru, a shantytown in the district of Lima. This is considered one of the most important ever Inca discoveries. The remains, surprisingly well preserved, may have belonged to wealthy and powerful warriors, as well as to simple inhabitants of ancient Peru living 1438-1572.

Meanwhile, an internet hit-parade search for the Seven New Wonders of the World, reveals that Peru's Machu Picchu is in first place. Challengers include the Great Wall of China, Rome's Coliseum, the leaning Tower of Pisa and Easter Island.