Why did the Incas build terraces?
The Incas built terraces for several reasons. One of the main reasons was to create flat, arable land on the steep mountain slopes of the Andes to support agriculture. The terraces helped prevent erosion, improve water drainage, and provide more land for growing crops such as corn, potatoes, and quinoa in a region with limited arable land.
Additionally, the terraces allowed the Incas to take advantage of different microclimates at varying altitudes, enabling them to grow a wider variety of crops and ensure a stable food supply. The terraces also served as a way to showcase their engineering and agricultural prowess, as well as demonstrate their ability to transform the harsh environment into fertile farmland.