Cusco: Peru’s Imperial City

In the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is a city of incomparable historical and cultural wealth. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a destination of choice for travellers in search of authenticity and adventure. With its archaeological remains, cobbled streets, colonial buildings and indigenous culture, Cusco is a must-see for any traveller exploring Peru.

A breathtaking history

Founded in the 12th century by the Incas, Cusco was the nerve centre of their empire, which they dubbed “the navel of the world”. According to legend, the city was founded by Manco Cápac, the first Inca ruler, on the orders of the sun god, Inti. This mythical history lends Cusco a mystical aura, reinforced by its impressive archaeological sites.

The treasures of Cusco

The Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas, at the heart of the city, is surrounded by magnificent colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of the Virgen de la Asunción and the Church of the Society of Jesus. The square is a gathering place, where many events take place.

Cuzco Cathedral

Built on the ruins of an Inca palace, this imposing 16th-century cathedral is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. It houses a precious collection of sacred art and religious objects, bearing witness to the syncretism between Andean and Spanish cultures.

Qorikancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo

The Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Covered in gold, it symbolised the wealth and power of the Incas. Today, the Inca foundations remain beneath the Santo Domingo convent, offering a fascinating contrast between pre-Columbian and colonial architecture.

Sacsayhuamán

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this Inca military complex is famous for its huge, perfectly fitting stone blocks. Sacsayhuamán not only offers breathtaking views of the city, but also a glimpse of the architectural ingenuity of the Incas.

A Living Culture

Although its heritage is exceptional, Cusco is not just a museum city; it is also a centre of living culture. The inhabitants, proud of their heritage, celebrate their traditions through numerous festivals, craft markets and dance and music performances.

San Pedro Market

If you want to immerse yourself in the day-to-day life of the Cuzqueños, you should visit their markets, of which the San Pedro market is a must. Here you can find a multitude of local products, from exotic fruits to alpaca wool clothing, medicinal herbs and traditional dishes.

The San Blas district

This bohemian quarter is the artistic heart of Cusco. Its narrow streets are lined with art galleries, craft shops and cafés. San Blas is also renowned for its panoramic views over the city and its charming whitewashed houses.

Sites around Cusco

The Sacred Valley

Just a few kilometres from Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a fertile region dotted with traditional villages and impressive ruins. Ollantaytambo and Pisac are among the most remarkable sites, offering a blend of archaeological remains and living cultures.

Our article: Ollantaytambo, a must-see destination in the heart of the Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu

No trip to the region would be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Inca citadel, perched on a mountain, is a masterpiece of engineering and mystery, attracting millions of visitors every year.

Our article: The Inca Trail, An epic adventure to Machu Picchu

Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun

The Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, is one of Cusco’s most important and spectacular events. Celebrated every year on 24 June, this festival pays homage to the sun god, Inti, and marks the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. Hundreds of participants, dressed in traditional costumes, re-enact Inca rituals in a colourful procession that begins in Qorikancha and ends in Sacsayhuamán. This celebration offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and ancestral traditions of the Incas.

Cuzco is a destination where every street corner tells a story and every stone is imbued with mystery and magic. The richness of its historical heritage, the vibrancy of its culture and the beauty of its landscapes make this imperial city a unique place to discover, one that leaves an indelible impression on all travellers who have walked its cobbled streets.

Photos: D.R.