The Nazca and the Incas were two distinct cultures that thrived in ancient Peru, though they are often confused due to their geographical proximity and the fact that they both existed in the same time period.
The Nazca civilization flourished from around 200 BCE to 600 CE, known primarily for their remarkable geoglyphs—large drawings etched into the ground known as the Nazca Lines—and their advanced agricultural techniques. They developed a unique artistic style and had their own religious beliefs and practices.
In contrast, the Inca Empire rose to prominence much later, around the early 15th century, ultimately becoming one of the largest empires in the world before the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The Incas were known for their sophisticated political structures, extensive road networks, and impressive architectural feats such as Machu Picchu.
While the Nazca and Incas coexisted in the broader Andean region, they are separate identities with their own distinct cultural attributes. The Inca Empire did absorb many earlier cultures and incorporated elements from them, but the Nazca were not a part of the Inca civilization itself.