Cusco is one of the most cosmopolitan, cultural, and historical cities that can be found around the world. The ancient capital of the Inca Empire is considered one of the main attractions of Peru along with the famous archaeological complex. This is a place that you cannot miss if you are inside Peru. Its name Cusco or Qosqo means in the ancient Quechua language “el Ombligo del Mundo”. Thousands of travelers from all over the world cross paths and find themselves in this magical city where anything can happen. That is why we have decided to do a small article together with Cusco Peru Travel about the main tourist attractions in Cusco.
The Imperial City is of unparalleled beauty. If you are wondering how to plan a trip to Peru, you cannot miss this destination. Throughout the entire city, you will notice an architecture dominated by a crossbreeding between the ancient Inca empire and the emerging colonial republic. An example of these is the beautiful churches and cathedrals that you can enjoy throughout Cusco. Many of them with Inca walls still in force to this day. Being able to visit the city of Cusco is an amazing experience for all tourists. Therefore, below we will try to describe the main tourist attractions in Cusco so that on your next visit you do not miss them.
This wonderful place is one of the main attractions within the Imperial City. Koricancha in Quechua means “golden patio” and previously it knew how to have walls covered with solid gold sheets. It was considered the Temple of the Sun, an important cult of one of the main Inca deities.
It used to have statues and ornaments made of gold that decorated its interior. Previously there was a giant gold disc that reflected the rays of the sun and illuminated the entire space of the temple. All the gold was stolen and melted in the Spanish invasions, leaving only the imposing Inca architecture that can still be seen to this day. The Spanish buildings were built above the temple and only left a trace of its beautiful walls. This miscegenation in architecture can be observed throughout the entire city. Visiting the temple is not expensive at all and you have the possibility of having a guided tour if you wish.
If you are in Cusco and you do not visit this beautiful and giant fortified complex, you will be missing a great historical part of the Imperial City. It is one of the most important ruins that make up the ancient Inca Empire. Some historians claim that this complex had a military and religious function.
The fortified complex has the shape of a puma head since Cusco was built with the intention of resembling one. The size of the complex is astonishing and its construction is a mystery to many. When you see the size of the stone blocks you will be wondering how it was built. If you are looking for affordable luxury travel, you cannot miss this destination.
Before the Spanish invasion, “La Plaza de Armas” has been the center and heart of the Inca Empire. This beautiful square is one of the main attractions of the city, and it is here that you will find locals and tourists taking a breath before continuing their tour. You will also find the main luxury hotels in Cusco to spend the night.
Around it, in addition to hotels, you can find some beautiful churches and cathedrals to visit. If you feel hungry, you will also find some traditional restaurants to try the well-known Peruvian cuisine.
This beautiful neighborhood rises on a hill near the Plaza de Armas. This is where you will pass through narrow cobbled streets where tourists abound. Around you will enjoy abundant vegetarian & vegan restaurants, art galleries, and even craft workshops. During the weekends you can enjoy different market stalls where you can buy your souvenirs. Beyond the square is the church of San Blas with a beautiful altar to appreciate. A cultural and traditional center that you cannot miss. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Cusco.
If you visit Cusco, you will notice a great variety of churches and cathedrals to visit. Some of these even have other functions like markets or hosting. Many of them have been restored due to earthquakes and other natural causes. Among the main ones we recommend that you visit:
If you want to experience the best luxury vacations, we highly recommend that you do not miss any of these.
Being a city full of history and tradition, Cusco cannot miss its unmissable museums. If you are on a pre-scheduled trip, chances are that on your guided tour you will visit one or the other. We recommend that you do not miss the Inka Museum, one of the best tourist attractions in Cusco. Here you will find beautiful and varied collections of ceramics, textiles, metalwork, gold, jewelry, mummies and much more.
We hope, together with Cusco Peru Travel, that this little article has been helpful. Do not forget to consult our advisors in case you have any questions. We will be waiting for your visit to the Andean country.
Peru has many wonders waiting for you to be discovered. Here in Cusco Peru Travel, our speciality is to make your trip an outstanding experience, fill-in this form and let your tailor-made luxury Peru vacation begin.
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