The founder of Cuzco was the INCA. The INCA were a South American civilization that flourished in the Andes Mountains from the 12th to 16th centuries. They were known for their advanced architecture, agriculture, and engineering. The INCA Empire was one of the largest empires in pre-Columbian America, stretching from modern-day Ecuador to Chile. The INCA were also known for their complex system of government, which included a powerful emperor at its head.