Inca Civilization

The Inca civilization was the largest Pre-Columbian civilization in the Americas and Cusco was its capital. The best kept example of its architecture is Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

The Sacred City is one of the most significant archeological sites left by the Incas

Culture

Fascinating culture and Inca heritage of this beautiful country

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. It occupies an important place in Inca mythology.

Animals of Peru

Animals in Peru have specialized and adapted to the conditions of its geography. At higher altitude levels, few animals and plants can survive because of the lack of oxygen.

Home » Inca Civilization

The Inca and his family

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Topa Inca Yupanqui, the 11th Inca.

The Inca or the Sapa Inca was the emperor, head of state with unlimited powers. There was only one Inca and no other person was called Inca but overtime this name became the term for the society in general. The Sapa Inca was polygamous and he usually married his sister who was his most important wife, she was known as the Coya. Polygamy was common among the royalty and upper classes and for those who could afford it. The Sapa Inca and the Coya lived in separate palaces which were decorated grandly.

Inca dynasty from the Peruvian School Painting. Christie’s Collection

The first Inca was Manco Capac and the last one Atahualpa, there were thirteen Incas in all from the year 1198 to 1533 until their defeat by the Spaniards.

IncaReigning Period
Manco Capac 1198-1228
Sinchi Rocca 1228-1258
Lloque Yupanqui 1258-1288
Mayta Capac1288-1318
Capac Yupanqui 1318-1348
Inca Roca 1348-1378
Hanan Yahuar Huaca 1378-1408
Wiracocha 1408-1438
Pachacutec 1438-1471
Tupac Inca Yupanqui 1471-1493
Huayna Capac1493-1527
Huascar1527-1532
Atahualpa 1532-1533

The Sapa Inca would choose his successor among his sons. Although the Sapa Inca might have many wives and sons only his sons who had the Coya as their mother could inherit the throne. It was not always the oldest son who would become the next Sapa Inca; sometimes the best son fitted for the job would become the next emperor.

 

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