Peruvian firefighters battled to control a forest fire that threatened to close Machu Picchu’s ancient city high up in the Andean Mountains.
Farmers started the fire on Tuesday, burning grass and other debris in preparation to sow new crops.
The fire had affected approximately 20 hectares (49 acres), according to Cusco’s mayor.
Machu Picchu is a complex of stone structures that sit atop a mountain. It was built by the Incas more than 500 years ago. Their empire controlled large swathes of South America, from what is now southern Ecuador to central Chile.
Firefighters’ efforts were hindered by the fire’s remoteness.
Roberto Abarca is the director of Cusco’s risk management and security office.
One of the seven new wonders of the globe is the stunning ruins of Cusco, Peru.
