Which empire is associated with the practice of terrace farming?

The Inca Empire is particularly recognized for its sophisticated use of terrace farming due to the mountainous terrain of the Andes region, where they thrived. This agricultural technique involved creating flat areas on the sides of mountains by building steps or terraces, which helped to maximize arable land and prevent soil erosion. The Incas innovatively adapted their farming practices to suit the topography, leading to successful cultivation of various crops such as potatoes and maize.

In contrast, while the Aztecs did employ chinampas or floating gardens for agriculture, this method is distinct from terrace farming. The Roman Empire utilized extensive agricultural methods, including large estates called latifundia, but did not primarily rely on terracing. The Byzantine Empire, as a continuation of the Roman state in the east, also focused on agricultural practices suited for different terrains but did not emphasize terrace farming in the same way as the Incas. Therefore, the connection of terrace farming to the Inca Empire is not just significant; it is central to understanding their agricultural advancements and adaptations to a challenging environment.