The Incas

The volume is dedicated to the presentation of the Incas andis based on the information that has been handed down to usfrom ancient records, from mythology and from archaeology.Drawing on the latest researches and sources on the subject,the volume seeks to reveal to the general public the historicalconditions, reasons and events that led to Incas’ success betweenthe 13th and 15th centuries AD in imposing their dominationupon the numerous populations native to the vast Andeanterritory. By presenting the historical records and archaeologicalevidences that relate the conquests and deeds of thesovereigns, from the legendary Manco Capac to Tupac Amaru,the last “Son of the Sun,” this book helps us to understandhow the Incas developed from a small ethnic group to becomean imperial power. In addition, special attention is given to indepthexaminations that enable the Reader to grasp the complexstructure of Incan society and its political, economic andreligious organization. Following the winding path of theUrubamba River across the so-called Sacred Valley, the heartof the empire, this volume, enhanced by splendid images, visitsthe famous archaeological sites where, in a magnificentcollaboration with the environment, the Incas were able tomold their own history through the construction of roads,hanging bridges, sanctuaries and cities. The Incas developeda culture that was the end result of a long process of transformationwhich involved all the thousand-year old Pre-Hispaniccivilizations of the Peruvian area: they were however able,more than any predecessor or challenger, to build relationshipsand dominate far-flung and extremely varied territories.For this reason, they remain the unifying symbol of the modernAndean nations.