The Second Part of the Chronicle of Peru

by Pedro Cieza de León

Explore the early rise of Cusco through the reigns of Sinchi Rocca, Lloque Yupanqui, and Mayta Capac, as recounted by Pedro de Cieza de León.

This edition presents the origins of the Inca capital, its growing power, and the culture that shaped its leaders. It covers how rulers extended influence, built and expanded sacred sites, and fostered alliances with neighboring communities, all told in a classic chronicle voice.

Readers will glimpse the ceremonial life around Curi-cancha and Guanacauri, hear how royal lineages and marriages shaped politics, and see the center of power evolve through rituals, obsequies, and the daily administration of a rising empire.

Stories of kings and their rise, including family alliances and succession rites Descriptions of temples, monuments, and festival practices that marked a city’s growth Insights into royal customs, mourning rituals, and public ceremonies Early accounts of how the Inca state organized land, labor, and society Ideal for readers of ancient Peruvian history and early empires who want a vivid, on-the-ground view of Cusco’s beginnings.

313 pages, Hardcover

First published October 5, 2001

About the author

Spanish conquistador and chronicler of Peru. He is known primarily for his history and description of Peru, Crónicas del Perú. He wrote this book in four parts, but only the first was published during his lifetime; the remaining sections were not published until the 19th and 20th centuries.

Reviews

[Mmonchi]

En este libro el autor cuenta la historia del imperio inca hasta la llegada de los españoles. Es un relato de primera mano de alguien que estuvo en las zonas que describe poco después de los hechos narrados, por lo que fue recopilando información de personas que los habían vivido. El lenguaje no es el de un escritor profesional sino el de alguien que quiere hacer función de notario, transmitiendo lo que ocurrió de la manera más fiel posible.
Un documento muy valioso para entender como llegaron los incas a tener un imperio tan extenso con las limitaciones que sufría: sin escritura, rueda o dinero cuesta entender los mecanismos que dieron estabilidad a un territorio tan vasto.