lThe Temple of the Sun at Cuzco was the center of state religion.
lThe sun cult spread throughout the empire, but the worship
of local gods continued.
lPopular belief was based upon a profound animism that endowed
natural phenomena with spiritual power.
lPrayers and sacrifices were offered at holy shrines (huacas),
which were organized into groupings under the authority of ayllus.
lThe temples were served by priests and women dedicated
to preparing the sacrifices and managing important festivals and
celebrations.