Javier Puente

In this engaging discussion, Javier Puente, an associate professor of Latin American studies, sheds light on the rich tapestry of Inca civilization. He reveals the complexities of the khipu system, which encoded vital information through knots, and the strategic use of the Inca Trail to unify diverse communities. The architectural marvel of Machu Picchu is explored, from its astronomical alignments to its role as a royal estate. Puente also discusses the societal impacts of disease and construction, providing a compelling view of this ancient empire's ingenuity and legacy.

Javier Puente, an associate professor of Latin American studies and historian, dives deep into the enigmatic world of the Incas. He explores the intricate network of the Inca Trail, revealing how it unified diverse regions. The discussion covers the purpose behind Machu Picchu’s strategic location and its role as a royal estate, offering insight into Inca engineering marvels. They also touch on the societal impacts of disease and the eventual abandonment of this iconic site, while contemplating its mysteries that continue to captivate the modern world.