Which ancient empire was known for its road networks and postal system?

The Incan Empire is well-known for its extensive road networks that crisscrossed the mountainous terrain of the Andes. This system was crucial for transporting goods, troops, and information across their vast territory, which extended along the western coast of South America. The Incas developed well-engineered roads that spanned over 25,000 miles, allowing for efficient movement and communication throughout the empire.

In addition to the road networks, the Incan society also implemented a relay postal system known as the "chaski," which utilized a series of messengers who would carry information and messages from one place to another. This system allowed for remarkably fast communication across the rugged landscapes, facilitating administrative control and cohesion within the empire.

Other empires mentioned also had notable communication systems or road networks. However, the Incan Empire's unique combination of mountainous road engineering and a dedicated postal relay system distinguishes it as particularly significant in this context. The Roman Empire, while famous for its roads, had a different style focused mainly on trade and military movement. The Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire both had road systems and communication strategies that were important, but they did not achieve the same level of integration and specialization seen in the Incan infrastructure.