Salt ponds embedded in salt in Maras resemble a layer of snow that covers the slope of Qoripujio mountain in the distance. It is a spectacular sight. Each of the more than 3000 pools have different shades of white or brown. The salt of Maras has been collected since pre-Inca times and travelers are invited to see this centennial tradition in operation. During the 12th century and the middle of the 14th century, the Inca Empire took over the operation of Maras. The Incas seasoned and preserved their food with salt. They may also have used the ore for mummification and other religious ceremonies. Ownership and management of the individual salt mines were given to families living in the nearby community of Maras. The same salt extraction process used by these families during Inca times has been transmitted from generation to generation and is still practiced today.