Is Cusco your next destination? And you’re not sure which places to visit? Don’t worry, here at the Peru Grand Travel blog, we have prepared a detailed guide on the 7 best tourist attractions in Cusco. We invite you to join us on this exciting adventure to explore them thoroughly and make the most of your visit to Cusco.
Cathedral of Cusco
The majestic Cathedral of Cusco, also known as the Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption, is the spiritual epicenter of the city. Its imposing presence not only stands out for its role as the main temple but also for the history that lies within its walls. Meticulously built with blocks extracted from an Inca quarry near Sacsayhuaman between 1560 and 1664, the building rises above the ancient royal palace of the Inca Wiracocha.
This iconic monument not only represents the culmination of colonial-era architecture in Cusco but also houses an invaluable treasure of art. The Cathedral is also recognized as one of the main repositories of works belonging to the Cusco School, with approximately 300 original paintings and furniture that add a distinctive touch to this revered place of worship.
Plaza de Armas of Cusco
The Plaza de Armas of Cusco is one of the most important symbols of Inca culture in Peru. In the days of the Incas, it was called “Haucaypata,” a Quechua word meaning the place of the warrior. Currently, the Plaza de Armas is located in the historic center of Cusco and is surrounded by tourist restaurants, jewelers, travel agencies, tourist shops, etc. In its surroundings, you can see the Cathedral, the Church of the Company, and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, dedicated to highlighting the art of ancient cultures of Peru.
The Stone of the 12 Angles
The Stone of the 12 Angles is a stone block from Inca culture that is part of a palace on Hatun Rumiyoc street in the city of Cusco. Its 12 vertices fit perfectly among other polished pieces of the Inca wall. It is said that it is enough to sit in front of it to verify its perfection, as not even a sewing needle can pass through its grooves. The Stone of the 12 Angles is a clear example of the level of engineering and technology with which the Incas built, as well as the precision with which they used to work.
San Blas Neighborhood
The San Blas neighborhood, formerly known as the artisans’ district, is a few meters from the Plaza de Armas. It houses the most prominent popular artists in the city, with steep and narrow streets and old houses built by the Spanish on important Inca foundations. It has an attractive square and the oldest church in Cusco, built in 1563, with a carved wooden pulpit considered the ultimate expression of the colonial era of Cusco. Without a doubt, a must-stop place.
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market, located a short distance from the main square and in front of the train station, stands out as a must-stop for any traveler exploring the city of Cusco. This vibrant market is known for its diversity and exoticism in terms of regional foods and products. Here, visitors have the opportunity to discover a varied offer that includes everything from fresh coca leaves to pure cocoa, the highest quality coffee, refreshing fruit juices, authentic typical dishes, and handmade products. Without a doubt, this essential corner is the ideal option to stock up on local products and, at the same time, enjoy an authentic and economical experience in the city.
Sacsayhuaman Fortress
Sacsayhuaman, located just 2 kilometers from Cusco, is one of the Inca constructions that impress tourists from around the world the most. Its fame lies in the astonishing precision with which the stone blocks that make up this majestic fortress are assembled. It is believed that its construction began during the rule of Pachacutec and continued during the reign of Tupac Yupanqui. Although it originally had a religious purpose, its strategic location and imposing style led the Spanish conquistadors and chroniclers to consider it as a military building. To reach this fortress from the main square, you can choose a walk of approximately 25 minutes or take a short drive, allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating history and impressive architecture of Sacsayhuaman.
Coricancha
According to the chronicles, Coricancha emerges as one of the most striking buildings of the Inca era in Cusco. This temple, dedicated to Inti (the Sun God), established itself as one of the most important spiritual centers of the Inca civilization. Its construction was carried out using sculpted granite blocks, carefully joined with melted gold, a combination that the astonished Spanish described as “fabulous, beyond belief.” Currently, the original foundations and walls of the Inca Temple of Coricancha serve as the base for the colonial structure of the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo. This fusion of Inca and colonial architecture not only preserves the magnificence of the ancient temple but also highlights the rich history and cultural evolution that this sacred site has experienced over the centuries.
Now that you have explored these highlighted tourist attractions in Cusco through our guide, we invite you to plan your next trip to this amazing city. Discover for yourself the magic that emanates from its cobbled streets and its historical legacy. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Inca and colonial culture of Cusco! Prepare your itinerary, book your accommodation, and embark on this unforgettable adventure in a place where the past and present intertwine uniquely. Cusco awaits you with open arms!
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