Cusco, Peru: An Enchanting City Of Cultural Treasures.
Perched high in the Andes Mountains of Peru lies the magical city of Cusco. It is a wondrous place full of vibrant cultures, fascinating ruins, old traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. It is often referred to as the capital of the Incan Empire, and its rich history dates back over 400 years. For centuries, Cusco has been a bustling city of commerce, culture, and history. From the magnificent sight of the Sacsayhuaman ruins to the amazing museum of Incan artifacts, Cusco is a city full of amazing attractions that must be seen to be believed.
Cusco is often referred to by its nicknames of “The Eternal City” and “The Navel of the World”. This is due to its placement in the highly spiritual Sacred Valley, and its importance to the Spanish conquistadors as well as the Incan Empire. Many consider it to be the most important city in Peru, and the gateway to exploring the rest of the country.
The City Centre of Cusco is located within the walls of the ancient Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Here you can find colonial plazas and cobblestone streets, as well as ornate churches. The central plaza of Cusco is the Plaza de Armas, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stores. This divine plaza is surrounded by golden hued buildings and an incredible 16th century Spanish Cathedral.
When in Cusco, make sure to visit some of the most sacred and important monuments to the Incan culture. The Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), a religious temple located just outside the city centre, is one of the most popular attractions. The Temple of the Moon (Kenko) is a pre-Colombian ruin in the Sacred Valley that overlooks Cusco. Then there is the Incan-built archeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, which is complete with one of the largest, oldest and most majestic stone walls in the world.
There’s no doubt that Cusco is an architecturally stunning city. As such, it’s known for its incredible art and artisan markets. Here, you’ll find stalls selling some of the most beautiful and unique works of art. You can purchase items ranging from traditional pottery to handmade jewelry and textiles. Also, the city’s many churches contain some of the most beautiful frescoes and sculptures, making it a must-see for art lovers.
When it comes to food, Cusco has you covered. The city offers some of the most delicious food in Peru. Creole cuisine is the major type here, and it has been influenced by the city’s Incan, Spanish, and African heritage. Dishes you must try include ceviche, chifa (Chinese-Peruvian food), and lomo saltado and anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers). For desserts, you can’t go wrong with famous Inca Cola and camu camu ice cream.
Finally, Cusco is renowned for its nightlife. With its wide variety of clubs, bars and restaurants, any visitor can find something to meet their evenings needs. There are pubs and clubs that range from hip and modern to traditional Peruvian. For those looking for a more cultural experience, there are stunning Incan ruins that light up at night and can be enjoyed with a beer or a glass of champagne.
In conclusion, Cusco, Peru is an enchanting city full of culture and fascinating attractions. From incredible ruins and museums to amazing art markets and delicious food, Cusco is sure to be a memorable trip for anyone lucky enough to visit. Whether you are looking for a spiritual journey or simply want to indulge in the city’s vibrant nightlife, Cusco will satisfy your every craving!
