Religion
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.