13 November, 2024
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is the heart of this historic city. From here, you can easily access a variety of iconic sites that allow you to explore both Inca history and colonial heritage. If you have limited time to explore, here’s a list of the 5 best places near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas (Main Square) that you can’t miss.
Just a few minutes’ walk from the Plaza de Armas, the San Cristóbal Viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of Cusco. From here, you can admire the city in all its splendor, surrounded by the mountains that encircle the valley, and the colonial buildings that adorn the landscape. This viewpoint is located in the small plaza in front of the San Cristóbal Church, which sits atop Don Bosco Street and can be seen from various points in Cusco. It’s the perfect spot to take stunning photos and see the city from a different angle.
The Sapantiana Aqueduct is a fascinating colonial-era hydraulic structure. It was built between the 17th and 18th centuries by the Jesuit Order and the Cabildo of Cusco, over the P’ujru River. This construction features a unique architectural design: a colonial wall with four-tiered arches, which is not only a testament to hydraulic engineering but also a showcase of the colonists’ ability to harness the region’s natural resources.
To reach the Sapantiana Aqueduct from the Plaza de Armas, take Calle del Triunfo, which passes alongside the Cusco Cathedral. Continue down Hatunrumiyoc Street until you reach Choquechaca Street. From there, walk to the end and climb a set of stairs, where you’ll find a sign pointing to the location of the aqueduct. As you ascend, you’ll notice a canalized stream that runs beneath the arches of this ancient hydraulic system.
Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, located on Avenida El Sol, is one of the most iconic sites in Cusco and is considered the most important temple of the Incas. The name “Qoricancha” means “Temple of Gold” as the walls of this temple were covered in gold and other precious materials in honor of Inti, the sun god.
Built in the 15th century, Qoricancha was the religious center of the Inca Empire and a key site for rituals related to the sun. After the Spanish arrived, the temple was partially destroyed, and the Church of Santo Domingo was built over its ruins, which now houses the Pre-Columbian Art Museum. Despite changes to the original structure, visitors can still admire the perfectly cut stone walls from the Inca period that form the base of the temple.
Hatunrumiyoc Street is one of the most historic streets in Cusco, famous for hosting the Stone of Twelve Angles, one of the most remarkable examples of Incan engineering. This stone is renowned for its precise carving, allowing it to fit perfectly with the other stones without the need for mortar. The street is also known for its colonial houses, built on Inca foundations, showcasing the fusion of both cultures in Cusco.
Hatunrumiyoc connects several important landmarks in Cusco, such as the Archbishop’s Palace and Plaza Nazarenas, making it an essential route for those wishing to explore the city’s historic center.
The San Pedro Market is one of the most vibrant and authentic places in Cusco, where locals and tourists alike come together in a space filled with colors, scents, and sounds. Located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Plaza de Armas, this market is ideal for those looking to experience the local gastronomy and traditional Andean products up close.
The market offers a wide variety of fresh products, from native fruits and vegetables to Andean medicinal herbs. Additionally, in the food section, visitors can enjoy traditional dishes. The market is also famous for its handmade crafts, including textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and more, created by local artisans.
Cusco is a city full of history, culture, and beauty, and the Plaza de Armas is the perfect starting point for your adventure.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these wonderful places and take home an unforgettable experience of Cusco!
