The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, Peru's top tourist jewel, reopened to visitors on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, after it closed due to demonstrations that have shaken the South American country since December. The first groups of tourists could be seen entering the archaeological park early in the morning, taking advantage of an unusually sunny day as they toured the different sites and sacred temples that make up the "llaqta," or "citadel" in the Quechua language. The famous citadel, built in the 15th century by the Inca emperor Pachacutec, has been closed to tourism since January 21 as Peru grapples with a social and political crisis that has seen waves of demonstrations, at times violent. Protesters are seeking the resignation of President Dina Boluarte and new elections. Tourism is crucial to the Peruvian economy, with the country attracting 4.5 million visitors a year.
PHOTOS BY AFP
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