Cuzco, Peru - tourist attractions

Cuzco is one of the largest cities in Peru and the center of the province of the same name. In addition, it is the oldest city. Thanks to the numerous archaeological excavations carried out on its territory, we know that people here settled more than three thousand years ago. Naturally, the rich history of the city is reflected in its appearance and sights, which we will talk about in this article.

What to see in Cuzco?

1. The Cathedral (La Catedral) . This cathedral was built in 1559. Construction continued, just imagine, about a hundred years. Among the main treasures of this cathedral is the picture of Marcos Zapata "The Last Supper" and the crucifix - "The Lord of Earthquakes".
2. The temple Korikancha (Qorikancha) , or rather will say, its ruins. But in fact before it was the richest and most beautiful temple of Peruvians. Now all that is left of it is the foundation and walls. Nevertheless, this place is still considered one of the main attractions of Cusco.
3. The ruins of Saqsaywaman . It is believed that for the Incas this place was of strategic importance and was used to conduct combat. Various religious events were held here. And the Peruvians believe that Cusco has the form of a sacred Inca animal - pumas. So Saksayuaman is just the head of a puma.
4. Tambomachay (Tambomachay) , or the Temple of water . This is a kind of bathhouse made of stone, where the underground waters come. According to legend, it was here that the Great Inca performed his ablutions.
5. The fortress of Puka-Pukara (Pukapukara) is located not far from Cuzco. Its name means "red fortress". For the Incas, it was an important military center, with the help of which it was possible to guard the road leading to the city.
6. Temple of Kenko (Q'enqo) . The name of this place is translated as "zigzag". The very same temple is a limestone rock, with many niches, steps, passageways, etc. Zigzag channels deserve special attention, according to which, most likely, blood flowed during various ceremonies.
7. The Pisac market . This market is located in the village of Pisac , near Cuzco. It is considered the most famous market for folk crafts in the country. Here you can buy clothes, jewelry and all this will be done manually. And in the food ranks you will get acquainted with exotic fruits and vegetables.
8. The Ollantaytambo temple complex is located in the homonymous village. The temples here are built of huge blocks. At the same time, some of these blocks simply lie in a chaotic order around the building. There is an opinion that the Incas just did not have time to bring the construction to completion.
9. The city of Machu Picchu is located in the Sacred Valley. There are several important for the Incas temples, palace and agricultural buildings, as well as ordinary residential buildings.
10. Archaeological complex of Raqchi . The main attraction here is the Viracocha Palace. This grandiose structure is unique, in the architecture of which the Incas used columns. In addition to it, you will see the Incas baths and an artificial pond.