Ancient Peru was home to several advanced civilizations, most notably the Inca Empire, which flourished from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The Incas built impressive structures, such as Machu Picchu, and developed extensive agricultural systems, including terracing and irrigation, to support their population in the diverse landscapes of the Andes Mountains. Before the Incas, other cultures like the Moche and Nazca thrived in Peru. The Moche are known for their intricate pottery and monumental adobe structures, while the Nazca are famous for the Nazca Lines, large geoglyphs etched into the desert floor. These civilizations contributed significantly to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Peru.