Step Into the Mystical World of Ancient Peru: Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru Exhibition at the Australian Museum

For the first time in Australia, the extraordinary achievements and captivating secrets of ancient Peru are being unveiled in the major cultural exhibition Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru, now open at the Australian Museum (AM) in Sydney. This exclusive exhibition, developed in partnership with Neon Global, Museo Larco, and the Ministry of Culture of Peru, takes visitors on an immersive journey into the rich and mysterious history of Peru's ancient civilizations, culminating in the awe-inspiring Incan Empire that created the legendary Machu Picchu.

As the fourth city in the world to host this groundbreaking exhibition—after Boca Raton, Florida, USA; Paris, France; and Milan, Italy—Sydney has the unique opportunity to explore over 134 priceless artifacts that shine a light on Peru’s ancient cultures, including the Inca, Moche, Nazca, Chimú, Chavín, and Lambayeque. The exhibition not only showcases some of the most opulent and meticulously crafted treasures of Andean gold to ever travel outside Peru, but also immerses visitors in the stories of supernatural deities, sacred rituals, and the architectural feats that once defined the Inca Empire.

A Gold Rush of History and Culture

At the heart of this exhibition is Machu Picchu, the world-renowned Incan citadel perched high in the Andes. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu has long captivated adventurers and history enthusiasts alike with its stunning blend of architectural ingenuity and mysticism. Visitors to the AM will now have the chance to experience the magic of Machu Picchu and the broader Inca Empire, exploring its legacy through an unrivaled collection of artifacts made from precious metals like gold, silver, and gilded copper.

Australian Museum Director and CEO, Kim McKay AO, said: "Peru’s ancient cultures are a treasure trove of mystery and wonder, and this exhibition brings them to life in a way that is accessible to everyone. Through immersive storytelling and interactive exhibits, visitors can explore the myths, cosmology, and remarkable craftsmanship that defined civilizations spanning over 14,000 years. For many, this is the closest they will come to experiencing Machu Picchu outside of Peru itself."

A Journey Through Time: Six Civilizations of Ancient Peru

The exhibition is organized around six key themes, tracing the development of Andean societies over millennia. These include the origins of the first civilizations, their complex religious beliefs, rituals, and royal power, as well as their advanced knowledge of trade, agriculture, and the eventual downfall at the hands of Spanish conquistadors. Visitors can explore everything from ceremonial tools and textiles to exquisite ceramics and royal burial treasures—each offering a glimpse into the daily and spiritual lives of Peru’s ancient peoples.

Among the most stunning items on display are body ornaments, textiles, and intricate ceremonial tools that reflect the deep connection between these societies and the supernatural deities they worshiped. These deities, representing natural forces like the sun, the moon, and the elements, played an integral role in the spiritual and cultural fabric of Inca society. For those fascinated by Peru’s unique mythology, these artifacts provide a direct link to the divine and the powerful rulers who claimed their favor.

Virtual Reality: A Bird’s-Eye View of Machu Picchu

For an even more immersive experience, visitors can embark on the first-ever Virtual Reality (VR) tour of Machu Picchu, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Captured during the COVID pandemic, when Machu Picchu was closed to the public, this stunning VR footage provides a rare and untouched look at the ancient citadel in its natural, awe-inspiring beauty. This cutting-edge VR experience recently won 'Best Use of VR' at the prestigious Lumiere Awards, and it’s an absolute must-see for anyone fascinated by the Incan legacy.

The VR experience adds a whole new dimension to the exhibition, allowing guests to "travel" to Machu Picchu from the comfort of the Australian Museum. It’s a powerful tool that brings the history and beauty of the site into sharper focus, making the distant mountains and sacred temples of the Inca Empire feel closer than ever before.

A Cultural Exchange of Ancient Treasures

His Excellency, Mr Vitaliano Gaspar Gallardo Valencia, Ambassador of Peru, emphasized the significance of this exhibition in strengthening cultural ties between Peru and Australia. “This exhibition is not just about showcasing ancient treasures; it’s about sharing the rich cultural heritage of Peru with the world,” he said. “It’s an invitation to explore and appreciate the legacy of the Inca Empire, and we are thrilled to bring this remarkable collection to Sydney.”

In addition to the exhibition’s breathtaking artifacts, visitors will also be treated to immersive multimedia displays and state-of-the-art lighting that transform the museum into a portal to the past. With each step, you’ll uncover the legacy of the Incan people—an empire that spanned vast territories and left a profound influence on the cultural landscape of South America.

Planning Your Visit

Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is a limited-time exhibition, so be sure to plan your visit to the Australian Museum in Sydney soon. The exhibition is open now and runs through [insert closing date here], offering an unforgettable cultural experience for all ages.

Machu Picchu

The exhibition is made possible through the support of Adventure World (Major Exhibition Partner), LATAM Airlines (Airline Partner), and Pullman Sydney Hyde Park (Hotel Partner). It promises to be one of the most captivating cultural experiences of the year, offering a deep dive into the mystical world of ancient Peru.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu, uncover the secrets of Peru’s rich history, and discover the treasures of the Golden Empires of Peru—all without leaving Sydney. This exhibition is a must-see for history lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who has ever dreamed of stepping into the world of the Inca Empire.

EVENT DETAILS

• What: Exhibition and VR, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru
• When: Saturday 23 November 2024
• Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 2/3
• Exhibition Tickets: Off peak: Adult $37.50, Child $20.00, Family x 4 $94.00; Peak: Adult $42.50, Child $ 23.50, Family x 4 $110.00. VR experience: $22.00
• For more information and to book tickets visit Australian Museum
• Editors note: Imagery, footage, background information here
• Social Media: Facebook: @australianmuseum; Instagram: @australianmuseum; Twitter: @austmus / Hashtags: #AustralianMuseum

Machu Picchu Events
Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru will be supported by a rich variety of Peruvian themed events each month, including exclusive conversations, experiences, music and tours. The summer program, Journey to Peru includes:

Conversations of the Golden Empires: From the Andes to the Amazon: Join experts for a journey through Peruvian archaeology and the spiritual legacies of its ancient empires. Date: Saturday, 14 December 2024, 10:30am - 11:30am | Cost: $10 Member, $25 Non-Member, $22.50 Concession

Conversations of the Golden Empires: Modern Discoveries of an Ancient Land: Explore Peru’s biodiversity and its insights into ancient life, culture, and beliefs, guided by historians and scientists. Date: Saturday, 8 February 2025, 10:30am - 11:30am | Cost: $10 Member, $25 Non-Member, $22.50 Concession

Peruvian Nights at the Museum: Discover the wonders of ancient Peru after dark. Every Wednesday in January during Sydney Festival, the Museum is open late, giving you exclusive after-hours access to Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru.