What kind of architecture did the Incas have?

The architecture of the Incas created buildings which were practical, good to look at, and uniform in design. They built everything from residential houses to great temples.

What was unique about Inca architecture?

A unique feature of Inca architecture is that it typically incorporated the natural landscape yet at the same time managed to dominate it to create an often spectacular blend of geometrical and natural forms.

What were Inca buildings made of?

The favourite material for Inca buildings was finely worked stone cut to create a precise arrangement of interlocking blocks. The stone was of three types: Yucay limestone, green Sacsayhuaman diorite porphyry, and black andesite. Each block of stone could weigh many tons

What are examples of Inca architecture?

Surviving examples of Inca architecture include the Coricancha temple and Sacsayhuaman fortress at Cusco, the residential buildings of Machu Picchu, and the extensive Inca road system.

Inca Architecture Timeline

Definition

Inca architecture includes some of the most finely worked stone structures from any ancient civilization. Inca buildings were almost always practical and pleasing to the eye. They are also remarkably uniform in design with even grand imperial structures taking on a similar look to more humble buildings, the only significant differences being their much larger scale and quality of finish.

More about: Inca Architecture

Timeline

c. 1425 - 1532
The Inca Empire flourishes in South America.
1438
Pachacunti Inca Yupanqui begins a rebuilding programme in the Inca capital of Cuzco.
c. 1450
Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui founds Machu Picchu in the High Andes.
1493 - 1526
Huayna Capac reigns as Inca leader and constructs fortresses, religious temples and roads throughout the empire.

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