Machupicchu - Huayruros Contemplating their Ancestors

This photograph by Heinz Plenge, is the most reproduced and awarded image in the world of Machupicchu (Peru), a 15th-century Inca ceremonial centre.
The image was taken in 1992, when tourism in Peru was reactivated after extended closure and Heinz Plenge accompanied the first expedition to Machupicchu.
The two carriers portrayed are members of the indigenous Huayruros Quechua community, inhabiting the region since Inca times. They are looking at the sacred mountains and settlement with contemplation recognising and recontacting their own ancestors. In the background they are mirrored by the two mountain peaks, Apu Huaynapicchu and Apu Huchuypicchu, representing sacred ancestors and symbolising the connection between the past and the present.
The spirituality of the image is underlined by the light conditions, where the twilight is illuminating the monument and the mountains are surrounded by clouds.