Cusco: The Living Testimony of Inca Greatness

cusco living inca testimony
 

Cusco, former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that exudes history and culture in every corner. From its majestic ruins to its colorful festivities, Cusco has remained a living testimony of Inca greatness. If you are planning to visit this Peruvian gem, it is important to know some key aspects that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

The Inca civilization: A legacy of wonders

The Inca Empire, known for its impressive architecture and engineering advances, has left indelible marks on Cusco. Walking through its cobblestone streets, one cannot help but feel transported to a time when the Inca civilization dominated much of South America.

Inca Architecture: A stone masterpiece

Inca architecture is famous for its precision and durability. Structures built from large blocks of stone fitted together perfectly without the use of mortar have withstood centuries of earthquakes and other natural disasters.

  • Machu Picchu: The most famous citadel, an archaeological site that attracts millions of tourists annually.
  • Sacsayhuamán: A fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco, known for its enormous stones that form a zigzagging wall.
  • Qorikancha: The temple of the sun, which in its time was covered in gold and was the most important religious center of the Inca Empire.

Engineering Advances: Wonders of Hydraulic Engineering

The Incas were also masters of hydraulic engineering, creating irrigation systems and agricultural terraces that are still used today.

  • Moray Terraces: A set of circular terraces that formed an agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with different crops.
  • Tipón Canals: An impressive canal system that demonstrates Inca ingenuity in water management.

Festivities and culture: A celebration of traditions

The festivities in Cusco are a vibrant display of the rich cultural heritage of the Incas. The most important is the Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, which is celebrated every June and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

  • Inti Raymi: A modern recreation of an ancient Inca ceremony in honor of the sun god.
  • Corpus Christi: A Catholic celebration that has been syncretized with Inca traditions, resulting in a unique and colorful holiday.

Discover the best kept secrets of Cusco

Beyond the popular tourist sites, Cusco is home to numerous hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Here we present some of the best kept secrets of this incredible city.

San Blas: The Artists' Quarter

San Blas is a charming neighborhood known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colonial houses, and vibrant arts scene. It is the perfect place to find local crafts and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

  • Art Workshops: Many local artists open their workshops to the public, offering a unique look into their creative process.
  • San Blas Viewpoint: An ideal place to capture impressive photographs of Cusco from above.

Local markets: A feast for the senses

Visiting the local markets of Cusco is an incomparable sensory experience. From the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables to the aromas of spices, these markets are the beating heart of Cusco daily life.

  • San Pedro Market: The largest and most famous market, where you can find everything from fresh products to crafts and souvenirs.
  • San Blas Market: Smaller and more intimate, ideal for trying local food and buying handmade textiles.

Lesser known trekking routes

In addition to the famous Inca Trail, Cusco offers several lesser-known trekking routes that provide equally impressive experiences without the crowds.

  • Trek to Huchuy Qosqo: A hike that takes you through stunning landscapes to the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, a lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological site.
  • Trek to Choquequirao: Known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is a remote Inca city that offers a challenging and rewarding trekking experience.

Your starting point for the perfect vacation in Cusco

To make the most of your visit to Cusco and explore the majesty of the Inca civilization, we invite you to stay at Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Hotel Boutique. This elegant hotel offers an exceptional location in the town of Machu Picchu, a few minutes from the train station and close to the legendary Inca citadel.

Book your stay at Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Hotel Boutique and discover Cusco at its best. We will wait for you!