The World of the Ancient Incas

The lives of the ancient native peoples of Peru and the Andes are shrouded in mystery and mythology. Within these pages is a fascinating and in-depth guide to the mysterious Inca world, providing an extraordinary insight into the lives of its everyday citizens. This beautifully illustrated book provides a vivid account of how the Chavín, Nazca, Moche, Wari, Tiwanaku, Chimu, Inca and other peoples lived, exploring the daily life of the Incas from birth to childhood, adulthood and marriage, to the rituals of death and burial. Within these pages you will discover the belief systems, religions and mythology of Inca culture and the tortuous sacrifices, slaughter and rituals that accompanied them and be able to chart the progression of Andean societies from primitive villages to the busy, bustling cities of the Late Horizon period including Chavín de Huántar, Tiwanaku, Chan Chan and Cuzco.
This accessible volume contains over 200 full-colour photographs, stunning illustrations and detailed maps. Accompanied by engaging text, timelines and a comprehensive glossary, this is a highly readable source of reference for both specialist and general reader.
Dr David M Jones studied Anthropology and History at the University of California, Berkeley. He obtained a PhD in the Archaeology of the Americas at the Institute of Archaeology, University of London. He later studied Earth Sciences at the Open University and received a BSc (Honours) in 2000. Dr Jones is the co-author of the Blue Guide Mexico, and he has written many articles on Mesoamerican and South American art for The Grove Dictionary of Art.