Machu Picchu: A Civil Engineering Marvel

Mr Wright and his team of engineers have produced a most intriguing hydrology analyses of the mountain citadel of Machu Picchu. Some parts may be boring for the layman when the book goes into engineering data of dates and rates of water fall and flow. The pictures are great and the insight brings to life the marvelous abilities of a people who did not posses the wheel or iron/steel tools. The Wright team are professional. This book is easy reading and not just meant for the engineering community. The feats and abilities of these conquered Inca people are amazing in light of their limited tools or availability of large draft animals. If you enjoy learning about the Inca people this is a must read.... especially if you are planning a trip to Machu Picchu. Highly recommended.Titu Cusi Yupanqui

This book is an engineering description of Machu Picchu, and although I am sure it is accurate it does not give much feel for the Inca way of life. A little exaggeration is also present, describing as a canal what is really just a channelized rivulet. Not, in my opinion, for enjoyable light reading, but probably useful prior to a visit to the site.

I appreciate the layout and attention to detail even more, after reading this! Wish I would have had it before I hiked to the sanctuary

Although an engineer myself, this book had too much engineering info. My expectations were not aligned with the intent of this book. Nice pictures. Surprised so many B&W pictures when color would have been marvelous. This book is only 20 years old.

Excellent primer on the how's and why's of construction. I think one of the many must reads if you are going to MP.

Very good book to understand the incredible engineering that went into the building of Machu Picchu. Very good....if you are going to visit its a must read.

bit technical, and boring, ok read

I'm heading back in September to check out some things that I missed the first time that I visited Machu Picchu.

Fascinating book.

quand on est ingénieur civil, anglophone, passionné d'architecture Inca et masochiste.pour les autres, même les illustrations, photos, et plans ne suffiront certainement pas à vous le faire acheter.Ceci n'est pas une biographie de David Bowie avec des anecdotes croustillantes sur le milieu hippie des années 60.Mais c'est bien.