In the early 13th century, in the highlands of modern-day Peru, arose the mighty Incan empire the largest empire in the Americas. The administrative, political and military center of the empire was located in what is now known as the city of Cusco. While Cusco served as the capital of the empire, Incan royalty dotted the western coast of the South American continent, from Ecuador to Chile, from Peru to Columbia.
The Chasquis were well-trained, highly agile runners that were used to deliver messages and other royal delicacies among the Incan royalty. Much like the Pony Express, which would come centuries later, the Chasquis worked using a relay system, allowing them to convey messages over very long distances within short periods of time.
Tambos, or relay stations, were constructed at key points along the road system, often consisting of a small shelter with food and water. The Chasquis would start at one tambo and run to the next, where a rested chasqui would be waiting to carry the message to the next tambo. Using this system, a message could be carried over 1,000 miles within a week.
