Visit one of the ancient cities of the Incan empire during its reign of “ Tawantinsuyo”, or the navel of the world, explore the magic and wonder of Cusco, Peru! This enchanting city offers many fun activities for people of all ages. 

Cusco (which can also be spelled Cuzco if spelt in Quechua, one of the ancient languages which is still spoken in Peru today) is a city full of charm. Its Main Square, churches and surroundings are full of footprints from the past. There are so many archaeological sites to explore during your trip. Make sure to visit Cusco’s Main Square or the “ Plaza Mayor” as its called in Spanish, which, during the time of the Incas, was called Huacaypata or Square of the Warrior. This square was the setting of various crucial events throughout the history of Cusco. Every year, people celebrated the Inti Raymi or Sun Festival; and this historic site was also where Francisco Pizarro proclaimed the conquest of Cusco. 

Make sure to take a trip to the Archiepiscopal Palace, which is connected by a large Renaissance yard with stone and decorative tiles on the walls. Here you can visit a collection of religious art by José Orihuela Yábar. The entire building was completely restored after the earthquake of 1950. This palace is truly a work of art in itself! 

The district of San Blas is one of the most picturesque communities of Cusco. It is characterized by its narrow and steep streets that zigzag among old colonial houses constructed with walls of Incan stone. It is also known as the Community of the Artisans, or the “ District of the Artists”, since its houses numerous workshops of famous Peruvian artists such as Hilario Mendívil, Edilberto Mérida, Santiago Rojas and Maximiliano Palomino. 

The residents of San Blas enjoy having tourists come to their homes as this gives them the chance of a lifetime to enjoy the hospitality and friendship of Cusco’s residents, as well as the opportunity to be a part of local customs and taste their delicious food. 

Cusco offers magnificent of Pre-Columbian and Colonial Art. You will find amazing artistic Incan works such as huge temples, palaces and artifacts. Nowadays, Cusco artisans still use ancient techniques mixed with Spanish influence in their artwork. 

Whether you are visiting an art gallery and admiring the Incan works of art, strolling down the cobblestone streets, or listening to the beautiful Quechua language still spoken in Cusco today, you will be thoroughly impressed by your visit to this majestic city.