It is believed that the first settlers came to Peru as much as 20,000 years ago. These early peoples were hunter-gatherers who probably settled in Paccaicasa in the Ayacucho Valley. It is these settlers that laid the groundwork for later civilizations.

Around 1200 BC, pre-Incan cultures began to settle on the Peruvian coast and highlands. These civilizations became well known for their attractive pottery, weaving skills, and agricultural techniques; the Incas later borrowed much of their knowledge to build a successful civilization.

The Inca Empire, which flourished from 1200-1500 AD, is often considered the most organized civilization in South American history. Worshippers of the sun, the Incas were known for their amazing construction techniques and architecture and their organized economic system.

Peru’s Incas were conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, under the leadership of Francisco Pizarro. During this era of change for Peru, Spanish priests endeavored to convert natives to Catholicism, causing a unique blending of beliefs which still remains. The Spaniards also brought wonderful new examples of colonial architecture to Peru.

In 1821, Peru finally became a free state, led to independence by Simon Bolivar. The country began to thrive, despite a war with Chile in 1879. The 20th century, however, brought about a difficult dictatorship and years of dealing with strong military regimes. Further political and economic strife has plagued the nation into the 21st century.