Cusco to celebrate Machu Picchu discovery anniversary year-round

Cusco, Feb. 15 (ANDINA). Peruvian authorities in the southeastern Cusco region are preparing a varied calendar of activities to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the scientific discovery of Machu Picchu throughout the year. Regional trade and tourism director Carlos Zúñiga said tourism-related organizations will soon meet to finalise and announce the schedule for the year-long celebrations. The official told Andina that the Centennial events will include fairs, a film festival, conferences, the launch of a commemorative postage stamp and an international photography competition. These events will be held in addition to other major activities scheduled for July 2011 in Lima. The pre-Columbian Inca site of Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas, is one of the most famous historical sites in the world. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by thousands each day, Machu Picchu was first revealed to the world when American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered the site in 1911. (END) VVS/JOT/CRB/EEP