Cuzco is an ancient city located in Peru, the former capital of the Incan Empire. The Incan people were a powerful civilization that flourished in the ANDES Mountains of South America from the 12th to 16th centuries. Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador, conquered the Incan Empire in 1533 and Cuzco became part of the Spanish Empire. Today, Cuzco is a popular tourist destination and is known for its archaeological sites, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. It is also the gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.