What South American Country Has the Most History?

South America, the fourth largest continent in the world, is home to a diverse range of cultures and histories. Each country in this region has its own unique history and heritage that makes it stand out from the rest. However, when it comes to the country with the most history, one name that immediately comes to mind is Peru.

Peru:
Peru is a country located on the western coast of South America. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient civilizations. The country has a long history that dates back thousands of years, making it one of the most historically significant countries in South America.

The Inca Empire:
Perhaps the most famous part of Peru’s history is the Inca Empire. The Incas were a powerful civilization that ruled over much of South America from their capital city, Cusco. The empire existed from 1438 until 1533 when it was conquered by Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro.

Machu Picchu:

One of the most iconic symbols of Peru’s history is Machu Picchu. This ancient site was built by the Incas in the 15th century and was forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Nazca Lines:

Apart from Machu Picchu, another significant archaeological site in Peru are The Nazca Lines located in southern Peru. These massive geoglyphs were created over 2000 years ago on a vast desert plateau and can only be seen from high above.

  • Nazca Lines include various shapes like animals such as monkeys, birds, and spiders.
  • It took around 1000 years to create all these designs!

The Spanish Conquest:

The Spanish arrived in Peru in 1532 and quickly conquered the Inca Empire. The Spanish rule lasted for over 300 years, and their influence can still be seen today in the country’s language, culture, and architecture.

The City of Lima:

Lima is the capital city of Peru and was founded by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535. The city has a rich history that includes colonial architecture, museums, and galleries that showcase Peru’s art and culture.

In conclusion, while all South American countries have their own unique histories, Peru stands out as one with the most significant historical significance due to its ancient civilizations such as the Incas, iconic archaeological sites like Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines, and its colonial past with Spain.