The Untold Story: Agustín Lizárraga, the True Discoverer of Machu Picchu

Introduction: The Other Discoverer of Machu Picchu

When we think of Machu Picchu, it’s common for Hiram Bingham's name to come to mind as the discoverer of this world wonder. However, the story has another version that many are unaware of. Agustín Lizárraga, a farmer from Cusco, was the first modern man to reach the Inca Citadel in 1902, almost a decade before the American archaeologist arrived at the ruins. This article unravels the fascinating story of Lizárraga and how his name was relegated to the shadows.

Who Was Agustín Lizárraga?

Agustín Lizárraga was a farmer and explorer from Cusco who lived near the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Driven by curiosity and his connection to the land of his ancestors, Lizárraga ventured into unexplored territories of the high jungle in search of new farmlands. During one of these explorations, he stumbled upon the imposing ruins of Machu Picchu, a city forgotten by history.

Accompanied by several witnesses, such as Gabino Sánchez and Enrique Palma, Lizárraga not only explored the site but also left an inscription on one of the citadel's walls: "Agustín Lizárraga, 1902." This tangible proof would later be discovered by Hiram Bingham himself.

Hiram Bingham's Visit: What He Found

Hiram Bingham arrived at Machu Picchu in 1911, guided by Melchor Arteaga, a local farmer who knew the routes to the citadel well. Although Bingham was the one who brought the existence of Machu Picchu to the world’s attention, he himself found evidence that others had already been there before. Among them was Lizárraga's inscription on one of the stones, clearly indicating that he was not the first man to discover the site.

However, Bingham took credit for the discovery in his writings and lectures. His expedition was supported by Yale University and the National Geographic Society, allowing him to broadcast the discovery globally. Meanwhile, Lizárraga and his feat were relegated to the official narrative's shadows, as he lacked the resources and influence to defend his discovery.

Testimonies from Cusqueño Historians and Locals

Cusqueño historians, such as Luis Nieto Miranda, have defended the version that Agustín Lizárraga was the true discoverer of Machu Picchu. Nieto Miranda argues that Lizárraga, a man of humble origins, never had the opportunity to claim his place in history due to a lack of resources and the limited attention given to farmers at the time. Furthermore, locals who knew of Lizárraga’s feat recount that he and his companions had already explored the ruins when Hiram Bingham had yet to arrive in Peru.

Lizárraga's descendants have also come forward to defend his legacy, asserting that he not only discovered the citadel but also knew it well, having visited Machu Picchu several times before Bingham's arrival.

Why Was Lizárraga Ignored?

The neglect of Agustín Lizárraga's name in the history of Machu Picchu's discovery is due to several factors. On one hand, the lack of documentation and interest in highlighting the work of local explorers contributed to his story being overlooked. On the other hand, Hiram Bingham, backed by major academic institutions and widespread media coverage, was able to solidify his version of events.

However, the discovery of Lizárraga’s inscription in Machu Picchu, along with testimonies from locals, remain irrefutable evidence that Bingham was not the first man to arrive at the Inca Citadel.

The Vindication of Agustín Lizárraga

In recent years, efforts have been made to reclaim Lizárraga’s role in Machu Picchu’s history. Several historical investigations have shed light on details that reinforce his prominence in discovering the site, and more and more people are joining the cause of recognizing him as the true pioneer.

While Hiram Bingham will always be remembered for introducing Machu Picchu to the world, we cannot forget that it was a man like Agustín Lizárraga, a Peruvian farmer, who first set foot in the sacred ruins of the citadel. Today, history owes him a place of honor among the great explorers of his time.

Conclusion: Who Was Really the Discoverer of Machu Picchu?

The official story has placed Hiram Bingham as the discoverer of Machu Picchu, but the facts and evidence point to Agustín Lizárraga as the first to find the citadel in modern times. Lizárraga, lacking global recognition and resources, was relegated to the shadows. However, his legacy lives on among the people of Cusco and those who know the real story.

Would you like to learn more about the mysteries of Machu Picchu and its forgotten discoverers? Keep exploring to uncover other hidden truths about this magical place.