Peruvian authorities and local Andean people living close to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu - an Inca dwelling located thsouands of metres above sea level - have voiced their dismay and anger at the widescale destruction of the world famous landmark. New York-based advertising firm J Walter Thompson group had been filming an advert for the beer company Cervesur in the sacred city when a 1,000lb crane crashed during the shoot. A piece of the 500-year-old Intihuatana stone (which was once used by Inca astronomers to predict solstices) was smashed as a result.

Locals and conservationists who collectively look after the revered ruuins expressed their dismay that the ad firm had converted the sacred space into a makeshift bar as part of the film set. The destruction of the Intihuatana stone is particularly symbolic as it is essential to Inca mythology and forms the centrepiece of the protected archaeological site. Furthermore, the site provides a vital source of income through tourism.

"Machu Picchu is the heart of our heritage and the Intihuatana is the heart of Machu Picchu. They've struck at our most sacred inheritance," said Federico Kaufmann Doig, a leading Peruvian archaeologist.

Gustavo Manrique, the director of National Culture Institute in Cuzco, said he felt "moral anguish" after the film crew allegedly sneaked their heavy equipment into the sanctuary at dawn, in violation of their permit.

Staff at the production company now face criminal charges and up to four years in prison.