The capital of the ancient Inca Empire was Cusco. Located in present-day Peru, Cusco was the political, religious, and cultural center of the Inca civilization, which thrived in the Andean region of South America from the 15th to the 16th century. The city's layout reflected Inca cosmology, with significant structures such as the Sacsayhuamán fortress and the Plaza de Armas at its heart. Cusco was also a hub for the extensive road networks connecting the vast Inca Empire, facilitating trade, communication, and military movement. Today, Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its historical significance and rich cultural heritage.