Protests in Peru: Machu Picchu is closed indefinitely, leaving tourists stuck
The government stated that the site and the Inca Trail walk leading to it were closed to safeguard tourists and citizens.
Hundreds of people, largely foreigners, are believed to be stranded at the site's base.
Dozens have been slain in months of violent protests that began after the former leader was deposed.
The tourists stranded at Machu Picchu are not the first to be stranded there as a result of the protests, which have delayed transportation services and damaged neighboring railroad tracks.
On Thursday, rail services to the facility were discontinued.
Last month, authorities had to rescue hundreds of visitors who had been trapped for days nearby.
Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel built in the 15th century in the Andes mountains that was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. It is extremely popular with tourists, with approximately a million people visiting each year.
Some people arrive at Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail, a well-known multi-day trek.
Peru's culture ministry said in a statement that individuals who had already purchased Machu Picchu tickets would be able to use them for one month after the demonstrations ended, or they would be refunded.
Demonstrators in Peru are calling for new elections and for the country's new President, Dina Boluarte, to resign, something she has so far refused to do.
They want her left-wing predecessor, Pedro Castillo, released from prison after being charged with insurrection and conspiracy.
Tourists who were visiting the Inca stronghold of Machu Picchu were stranded.
Hundreds of travelers have been stranded at Machu Picchu in recent weeks owing to protests that have disrupted transportation.
Authorities confirmed on Saturday that another protester had died as a result of protests in Puno's southern district, where police stations were set on fire.
At least 58 Peruvians have been injured as a result of the protests.
In the most recent conflicts, police barricaded highways and sprayed tear gas at stone-throwing demonstrators in Lima, the capital.
The European Union has denounced the widespread violence and the police's "disproportionate" use of force.
"As a way out of the situation, the EU urges on the government and all political actors to take urgent efforts to restore calm and ensure an open conversation with the participation of civil society and affected communities," the EU said in a statement.
Years of political upheaval in the country culminated last month when Mr. Castillo was imprisoned for attempting to dissolve Congress.
He is being probed on rebellion and conspiracy allegations. He denies all of the allegations and maintains that he is still the rightful president of the country.
Ms. Boluarte has refused to resign, despite calls from several regional governors, and earlier this week encouraged Peruvians to keep their protests calm.
No comments