THE INCAS

The volume is dedicated to the presentation of the Incas and is based on the information that has been handed down to us from 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 historical conditions, reasons and events that led to Incas' success between the 13th and 15th centuries AD in imposing their domination upon the numerous populations native to the vast Andean territory.

By presenting the historical records and archaeological evidences that relate the conquests and deeds of the sovereigns, from the legendary Manco Capac to Tupac Amaru, the last Son of the Sun, this book helps us to understand how the Incas developed from a small ethnic group to become an imperial power. In addition, special attention is given to indepth examinations that enable the Reader to grasp the complex structure of Incan society and its political, economic and religious organization.

Following the winding path of the Urubamba River across the so-called Sacred Valley, the heart of the empire, this volume, enhanced by splendid images, visits the famous archaeological sites where, in a magnificent collaboration with the environment, the Incas were able to mold their own history through the construction of roads, hanging bridges, sanctuaries and cities. The Incas developed a culture that was the end result of a long process of transformation which involved all the thousand-year old Pre-Hispanic civilizations of the Peruvian area: they were however able, more than any predecessor or challenger, to build relationships and dominate far-flung and extremely varied territories. For this reason, they remain the unifying symbol of the modern Andean nations.