Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the ancient Inca city became the basis for the Spanish architecture you see today, and many of the stone walls that line the streets were built by the Incas.
Earthquakes shook Cusco in 1650, 1950, and 1986, and in each of them the Inca masonry on which later buildings stood survived, while colonial and other buildings collapsed above. After each earthquake, Cusco rebuilt its churches and historic buildings.
Most tourists who come to Cusco head to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the other nearby Inca centers, but it's worth spending some time exploring the city to discover its many attractions. Most are around the Plaza de Armas and the surrounding streets, which is where you'll also find restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Follow the streets uphill from the northeast end of the Plaza de Armas towards the cobblestone streets of the San Blas district. In this quaint little neighborhood you will discover small shops and restaurants frequented by both locals and visitors who prefer to stay in this quieter neighborhood with beautiful views of the entire city.
To make sure you don't miss out on any of the best places to visit, plan your trip with our list of top Cusco attractions.
Comments