This week's primary school assembly invites us to explore a remarkable story from the news. Our focus: the world-famous site of Machu Picchu in Peru, which recent research suggests has carried the wrong name for over a century. Let's discover what makes Machu Picchu so fascinating, why its naming history matters, and consider the significance of names in our own lives and communities. What’s the Story About Machu Picchu? Machu Picchu, located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is recognized globally as one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Tourists flock from all over the globe to visit the 'lost city,' which sits at 8,000 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views and UNESCO World Heritage status. But according to new research, generations have been mistakenly calling it ‘Machu Picchu’ when the Inca inhabitants may have known it as Picchu or Huayna Picchu. How Was the Name Confused? A recent study found no Inca records referring to the site as ‘Machu Picchu.’ Instead, it appears that documents, including a 1904 atlas, reference ruins called Huayna Picchu, predating the site's modern renown. Researchers, including historian Donato Amado Gonzales and archaeologist Brian Bauer, concluded that the original Inca name was likely Picchu or Huayna Picchu, suggesting a century-old mix-up since its rediscovery by explorer Hiram Bingham III in 1911. Discovering Machu Picchu: History and Significance The Inca Empire was the largest in South America, covering five countries and ruling over twenty million people at its peak. Machu Picchu was built more than 500 years ago and is admired for its advanced stonework—each stone was cut precisely to fit with no mortar needed. Llamas and alpacas, important to the Incas, can still be found roaming the site. Interestingly, the city remained hidden from the Spanish conquerors in the 1500s and wasn't brought to international attention until Bingham's expedition in 1911. Although local valley inhabitants knew about the ruins, Bingham’s documentation, books, and photographs made the site famous worldwide. Why Did the Incas Abandon Machu Picchu? The reasons for its abandonment are still debated. Some believe it was due to water shortages, while others suggest disease, such as smallpox, played a part. The site’s remote existence helped preserve its structures and mystique. Impressions of Machu Picchu Hiram Bingham described Machu Picchu as one of the most significant ruins discovered since the Spanish conquest, noting its splendid stonework and the large number of well-constructed dwellings. Today, it stands as a symbol of Peruvian heritage and a reminder of an ancient civilization’s achievements. The Power and Meaning of Names Names are more than just labels; they help identify people, places, and objects, and they often carry historical or cultural significance. For Peruvians, the name Machu Picchu has become a cherished part of national identity, even if research now shows it was not the original name. As historian Natalia Sobrevilla from the University of Kent notes, established names can become symbols, and changing them may have little impact unless there’s a strong reason. Why We Choose Names Names can be chosen for many reasons—because they are meaningful, carry personal or cultural significance, or simply because we like them. For example: Daniel named his house ‘Preswood Cottage,’ using a family name that holds special meaning. Coleen chose the name ‘Oran’ for her son, meaning ‘light.’ Jedrick named his goldfish after his favourite foods! Storms in the UK are given names through public suggestion to help people take warnings seriously. Nicknames and Identity Nicknames are informal names, often chosen by friends or family, to show affection or familiarity. Names, whether official or informal, play a role in how we connect with others and show our identity. Discussion Ideas for the Classroom Here are some questions and activities you might like to discuss together as a class or at home: How important do you think names are, and why? Do you like your own name? Do you know why it was chosen? Have you ever used a nickname, or do you know someone who changed their name? Should Machu Picchu be renamed to reflect its original Inca name? How would it feel to discover a place very few people had heard of? Research the history behind the names of local places or landmarks. Classroom Follow-up Activities Write your full name in your best handwriting, or research the meaning of your name. Make a tally or pictogram of how many letters are in each person's name in your class. Create a list of names of villages, streets, or natural features nearby and investigate their origins. Discuss the difference between proper nouns and common nouns using the names you know. Reflection Names help us express who we are and connect to history and culture. They can be labels, but often they are so much more: linking us to family, tradition, place, and personal stories. Whether it’s the name of a world-famous landmark or your own given name, every name tells a part of a bigger story. * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
