Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, welcomes you with a seamless blend of ancient history and modern life.
High in the Andes, it’s your gateway to the world-renowned Machu Picchu. But beyond the well-trodden paths leading to this iconic destination, Cusco reveals a treasure trove of lesser-known marvels that tell the rich, cultural, and historical story of Peru.
When you first step into the Plaza de Armas, you’re immediately enveloped by its vibrant energy and historical significance. As the central square of Cusco, the plaza has been the focal point of the city’s life since the time of the Incas, who originally designed it as the center of their empire. Today, it’s a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the beauty and ambiance of this lively space. The square is flanked by colonial arcades and surrounded by a mix of modern cafes, shops, and historic buildings, offering a delightful blend of old and new.
One of the most striking features of the Plaza de Armas is the Cusco Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin. This magnificent structure, built over the ruins of the Inca palace Kiswarkancha, is an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the blend of Inca and Spanish cultures. Construction of the cathedral began in 1559 and was completed in 1654, taking almost a century to reach its current form. The cathedral was constructed using stones taken from the nearby Sacsayhuamán fortress, symbolizing the fusion of the two civilizations.
Inside, the cathedral houses an extensive collection of colonial art, including an impressive altar made of silver and numerous paintings from the Cusco School of Art. This school was a significant artistic movement during the colonial period, blending European techniques with indigenous themes and styles. The cathedral’s interior is adorned with ornate altars, intricate woodwork, and beautiful frescoes that depict various religious scenes. Among the most notable artworks is the painting of the Last Supper by Marcos Zapata, which uniquely includes local foods such as guinea pig and Andean fruits.
The cultural significance of the Cusco Cathedral goes beyond its artistic treasures. It is a vital center for religious activities and plays a key role in the spiritual life of Cusco’s residents. The cathedral serves as the primary place of worship during important festivals such as Corpus Christi, where elaborate processions and ceremonies take place. These events draw large crowds and reflect the deep-rooted Catholic traditions that have shaped Cusco’s cultural identity over the centuries. Visiting the Cusco Cathedral offers a profound insight into the city’s rich history and the enduring legacy of its colonial past.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Church of the Society of Jesus, another architectural gem that adds to the plaza’s grandeur. This church, often simply called La Compañía, is known for its stunning baroque facade and beautifully decorated interior. The church’s twin towers and ornate details showcase the craftsmanship of the Spanish colonial period. Stepping inside, you’ll be awed by the golden altars and the serene atmosphere that invites quiet reflection amidst the bustling city outside.
As you stroll through the plaza, you’ll notice the beautifully maintained gardens and fountains that add to its charm. The central fountain, crowned with a statue of Pachacuti, an important Inca ruler, serves as a reminder of Cusco’s indigenous roots. Benches shaded by trees provide the perfect spots for people-watching and absorbing the vibrant life that unfolds around you. The plaza often hosts festivals, parades, and cultural events, making it a dynamic space that pulsates with the rhythm of Cusco’s communal life.
By day, the Plaza de Armas is a picturesque spot where you can explore the surrounding attractions, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes, or browse through the local artisan shops. By night, the plaza transforms into a magical scene with beautifully lit buildings, and the air fills with the sounds of musicians and the lively chatter of people. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history, enjoy local culture, or simply relax and watch the world go by, the Plaza de Armas is an essential experience that captures the spirit of Cusco.
Looking up from the bustling heart of Cusco, your gaze is drawn to the serene Cristo Blanco, offering a panoramic perspective on the city’s charm.
Overlooking the city of Cusco is the majestic Cristo Blanco, a towering white statue of Christ that offers a serene vantage point for panoramic views of the city below. Erected in 1945 by a group of Christian Palestinians as a token of gratitude to Cusco for welcoming them after World War II, the statue stands at eight meters tall and can be seen from various points in the city.
To reach Cristo Blanco, you can enjoy a pleasant hike from the Plaza de Armas, which takes about 30-45 minutes, or opt for a short taxi ride. The journey is well worth it, as you are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Cusco and the surrounding Andes, especially magical at sun set when the city is bathed in a warm, golden glow.
Exploring the vibrant neighborhood of San Blas offers a delightful contrast to Cusco’s historic sites. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, San Blas is filled with narrow, cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, galleries, and quaint cafes. It’s a place where you can witness local craftsmanship firsthand, from traditional weaving to intricate silverwork.
As you explore Cusco, the Q’eswachaka Bridge, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, stands as a remarkable relic of Inca engineering. Spanning the Apurímac River at an altitude of 3,700 meters, this hanging rope bridge measures 28 meters in length and 1.20 meters in width. It’s part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Great Inca Road, an extensive network of pathways connecting the diverse corners of the Inca Empire.
The crisp mountain air greets you as you cross the Q’eswachaka Bridge where you’ll appreciate the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and the enduring strength of community tradition. Constructed using ichu, a type of local grass, the bridge is rebuilt annually by the communities of Chocayhua, Chaupi-banda, Huinchiri, and Collana.
During the second week of June, these communities come together in a festival that revives the techniques and spirit of their ancestors. Women braid the ichu into ropes, while men meticulously replace the worn-out parts of the bridge, ensuring its preservation and usability for the coming year.
This annual event is more than just a reconstruction project; it’s a celebration of cultural heritage and community spirit. The festival is accompanied by traditional music, dance, and rituals, transforming the maintenance of the Q’eswachaka Bridge into a vibrant cultural spectacle. Located in the Quehue district of Canas province, approximately 180 km south of Cusco, the bridge is accessible via a scenic 3.5-hour drive, offering you a picturesque journey through the Andes.
After immersing yourself in Cusco’s storied past, the vibrant present awaits in its lively neighborhoods and markets.
Just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas, you’ll find the bustling San Pedro Market, a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and scents. Here, you can sample local delicacies, purchase fresh produce, and browse stalls brimming with handmade goods.
Local markets and daily interactions provide a window into the communal lifestyle that characterizes Cusco. In places like the San Pedro Market, you can observe the everyday interactions of vendors and buyers, learn about traditional Andean remedies, and even try coca leaves, which are commonly used to combat altitude sickness. Engaging with the local people, you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality that define Cusco’s community spirit.
Immersing yourself in the lively market scene provides a genuine taste of Cusco’s everyday life and rich cultural heritage.
Cusco is a city that loves to celebrate, and its festivals are a vibrant expression of its cultural richness and historical heritage. These celebrations are deeply rooted in both Inca traditions and Catholic influences, resulting in a unique blend of rituals, music, dance, and community spirit.
One of the most renowned festivals in Cusco is Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, held every June 24th. This event is a grand reenactment of an ancient Inca ceremony dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. The festival starts at the Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, and continues to the Plaza de Armas, culminating in the Sacsayhuamán fortress. Dressed in elaborate costumes, participants perform traditional dances and rituals, evoking the splendor of the Inca Empire. Inti Raymi attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, offering a spectacular insight into Inca heritage.
There are several significant Catholic celebrations, including Corpus Christi which has been celebrated in Cusco for over 400 years 60 days after Easter.
Santuranticuy, held on December 24th, is a festive market that transforms the Plaza de Armas into a bustling marketplace filled with artisans selling nativity scenes, handmade crafts, and traditional foods.
During Semana Santa (Holy Week), Cusco hosts a series of religious events and processions that commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Finally, the Virgen del Carmen festival in the town of Paucartambo, near Cusco, is a spectacular celebration held every July, honoring the Virgin of Carmen with colorful parades, traditional dances, and elaborate costumes.
These festivals and celebrations make Cusco a lively and dynamic destination, where tradition and festivity go hand in hand. Participating in these events provides a unique opportunity to experience the city’s cultural depth and the vibrant spirit of its people.
Cusco and the neighboring region are also home to several other historical and cultural landmarks that offer a deeper insight into its rich Inca heritage. While any random stone might have once been part of an Incan monument, its history lost forever, any student of history should include Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and the Twelve-Angled Stone in his exploration of Cusco.
Qorikancha, known as the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Originally covered in sheets of gold, Qorikancha’s walls and floors glistened brilliantly before being plundered by the conquistadors. Today, it forms the foundation of the Convent of Santo Domingo, and visitors can marvel at the masterful Inca stonework that seamlessly blends with the colonial architecture of the convent. The temple complex includes several other smaller temples, dedicated to the Moon, Venus, and various deities, reflecting the Incas’ sophisticated astronomical knowledge.
Sacsayhuamán is an impressive Inca fortress situated on a hill overlooking Cusco. Known for its massive stone walls, some of which weigh over 100 tons, Sacsayhuamán showcases the incredible skill of Inca stonemasons who cut and fit these stones so precisely that no mortar was needed. The site was the stage for the annual Inti Raymi festival, which celebrates the winter solstice and honors the Sun God. Today, visitors can explore the extensive ruins, enjoy panoramic views of Cusco, and appreciate the ingenuity and craftsmanship that went into building this monumental structure.
Qenqo, located a few kilometers from Cusco, is an archaeological site believed to have been a ceremonial center. The site features labyrinthine underground passages and unique carved stone structures, including a large monolith with zigzagging channels that are thought to have been used for ritual sacrifices or ceremonial liquids. Qenqo, meaning “labyrinth” or “zigzag” in Quechua, offers a mysterious and intriguing glimpse into the spiritual practices and rituals of the Inca civilization.
The Twelve-Angled Stone, found on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, is a testament to the precision and artistry of Inca stonework. This famous stone is part of an ancient wall that once belonged to the palace of Inca Roca. The stone’s twelve perfectly fitted angles demonstrate the Incas’ remarkable engineering skills, as it fits seamlessly with the surrounding stones without the use of mortar. The Twelve-Angled Stone has become a symbol of Cusco’s architectural heritage and is a popular spot for visitors to marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
To delve deeper into the history and culture of the Inca civilization, a visit to the Museo Inka is indispensable. Located near the Plaza de Armas, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that provide a comprehensive look into the Inca’s sophisticated society. You’ll find exquisite pottery, intricate textiles, and ceremonial items that reveal the daily life, religious practices, and artistic achievements of the Inca people. The museum also features a fascinating exhibit of mummies, allowing you to glimpse ancient burial customs and beliefs about the afterlife. By exploring the Museo Inka, you gain a richer understanding of the Inca civilization’s remarkable legacy and its enduring impact on modern Peru.
Pikillaqta, a lesser-known archaeological site, provides a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Inca Wari civilization. Situated at an elevation of around 11,000 feet, Pikillaqta was a thriving urban center built in the late 6th century. The site comprises over 700 structures, including residential buildings, administrative complexes, temples, and food storehouses, reflecting the city’s multifaceted role in Wari society.
When you walk through Pikillaqta, you can feel the advanced urban planning skills of the Wari people. The city was meticulously designed with wide streets, courtyards, and plazas, facilitating both daily life and ceremonial activities. The use of adobe and stone in construction, combined with the site’s strategic location overlooking the Quispicanchi Valley, underscores the Wari’s architectural prowess and their ability to adapt to the challenging highland environment.
At its peak, Pikillaqta housed nearly 10,000 inhabitants and served as a crucial center for worship, administration, and military operations. The site’s extensive network of roads connected it to other Wari settlements, enhancing its strategic significance. Located near the town of Huacarpay, just 18 miles south of Cusco, Pikillaqta offers you a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of a civilization that predated the Incas and significantly influenced their culture.
In the heart of the Quispicanchi province lies the small town of Andahuaylillas, home to the San Pedro Apostol Church, famously dubbed the “Peruvian Sistine Chapel.” This unassuming church, with its modest exterior, hides an interior of breathtaking beauty. Inside, you’ll be greeted with a rich display of Baroque art, where every inch of the walls and ceilings are adorned with intricate frescoes and gilded decorations.
When you step inside the church, you’ll discover its construction began in the late 16th century, and its interior was embellished by Luis de Riaño, a disciple of the Italian artist Angelino Medoro, alongside indigenous artists. The result is a stunning blend of European and Andean artistic traditions. Notably, the church’s murals depict not only religious scenes but also naturalistic motifs, showcasing the fusion of local and colonial artistic styles.
Visiting Andahuaylillas, you’ll find the San Pedro Apostol Church is a key stop on the Baroque-Andean route, a tour that includes other significant religious sites such as the Society of Jesus, San Juan Bautista de Huaro, and the Chapel of the Virgin Purified of Canincunca. This route offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Cusco’s religious and artistic history. To visit Andahuaylillas, you can take a 45-minute bus ride from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, making it a convenient yet enriching excursion.
Of course Machu Picchu remains the star attraction, Cusco’s surrounding landscapes hold countless lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. From the verdant Sacred Valley, dotted with ancient ruins and traditional villages, to the rugged peaks of the Andes, the region offers a wealth of natural and cultural experiences. The journey to these sites is often as rewarding as the destinations themselves, with breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Venturing beyond the main tourist routes, you’ll immerse yourself in authentic local experiences. Visiting small towns and villages provides an opportunity to engage with the local Quechua-speaking communities, learn about their customs, and participate in traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery. These interactions enrich your travel experience, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.
But no exploration of Cusco would be complete without the iconic train ride to Machu Picchu. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning views of the Urubamba River, lush valleys, and towering peaks. Train options range from budget-friendly services to luxurious experiences with gourmet dining and panoramic windows.
| Did You know?Cusco is one of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the AmericasQorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, was once covered with 700 sheets of solid gold.Cusco’s name comes from Qosqo, meaning “The Navel of the World”.Cusco was the starting point of the Inca road system. |
Departing from Cusco and Ollantaytambo, the trains to Machu Picchu provide various options to suit different itineraries and budgets. The luxury trains, such as the Belmond Hiram Bingham and the Inca Rail First Class, offer an opulent journey with live music, fine dining, and impeccable service. For those seeking a more economical option, the PeruRail Expedition and Inca Rail Voyager provide comfortable and scenic rides without compromising the breathtaking views.
When planning your train trip to Machu Picchu, consider booking tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Opt for window seats to fully enjoy the spectacular landscapes. Additionally, choosing an early morning or late afternoon departure can enhance your experience with beautiful lighting and fewer crowds at the ruins.
Cusco’s high altitude, at over 11,000 feet above sea level, can cause altitude sickness in some travelers. To acclimate, spend the first day resting and drinking plenty of fluids, gradually increasing physical activity and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals in the first 24 hours.
Cusco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The dry season, from May to October, offers clear skies and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites. The rainy season, from November to April, brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, although heavy rains can sometimes disrupt travel plans.
Cusco’s local culture is a tapestry woven from centuries of tradition, history, and the daily life of its people.
Walking through the city’s streets, you’ll encounter a rich blend of influences that reflect its Inca heritage and Spanish colonial past. The Quechua-speaking communities are central to preserving many of the region’s ancient customs, from traditional music and dance to the meticulous craftsmanship seen in weaving and pottery. These artisans produce vibrant textiles and intricate ceramics, often using techniques passed down through generations.
Cusco is much more than Machu Picchu; it is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
With its diverse attractions and cultural depth, Cusco invites you to uncover its many secrets and to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this extraordinary region. Whether you are wandering through ancient ruins, partaking in local traditions, or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, Cusco promises an enriching journey that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the richness of Peru’s history and culture.
For more information
- peru.travel/en
- cuscotourism.org
- municusco.gob.pe
- machupicchu.gob.pe
- qhapaqnan.cultura.pe
- sernanp.gob.pe
