HISTORY

Before the official Inca empire, there were a number of small tribes in the Cuzco region around the 12th century, settled amongst the Andes mountains. One of those tribes eventually formed a small settlement and gained control of the region under the leadership of Manco Capac. In 1438, a man by the name of Pachacuti led many conquests, conquering neighbouring tribes and greatly expanded Inca territory. The year 1438 marks the beginning of the recorded Inca empire, and spans until approximately 1533.

At it's height, the empire was 2,500 miles long and had an estimated population of approximately 12 million. The Inca were known for their extensive road and irrigation systems, sturdy architecture, innovative agricultural practices and strong central government.

Their eventual downfall came about when the Spanish, led by Pizarro, invaded and conquered the Inca in 1533.