The Aztec civilization arose in central Mexico in the 13th century and built the magnificent city of Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco, constructing floating islands. They later expanded their empire through conquest, extracting taxes from subjugated peoples. Aztec society had an emperor and nobility who were wealthy, while most people were farmers. Human sacrifice was an important part of Aztec religion, with sacrifices meant to honor gods like the sun god. The Inca empire also arose in the late 15th century in the Andes Mountains of South America, eventually spanning over 2,500 miles. The Inca were excellent farmers and builders, constructing elaborate agricultural terraces and roads. Like the Aztecs, the In