Located in the heart of the Andes, the city of Cusco, Peru, carries with it all the culture and influence of the Incas and Spanish in architecture and gastronomy.
The union of the influence of different peoples is one of the most striking points for tourism in Cusco, but these influences have not remained stagnant over the years. The city created a unique style, not found anywhere else, only in Cusco, at 3,000 meters above sea level.

Cusco, history and tourism

History: According to legends, Cusco was founded by a pair of brothers, also founders of the Inca Empire, on a pilgrimage south of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, when the Sun God revealed the exact location. Established over the years, the capital and seat of the Inca Empire, which was soon taken by the Spanish in 1533, through various battles, many held in the historic center of Cusco, in the Plaza de Armas, landmark and representative of Cusco. Postcards.
In 1821, Peru declared its independence and Cusco remained important as a political-administrative organization. A new expedition in 1911 led to the discovery of the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Today, the city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the main starting point for Machu Picchu. Together, they are the main tourist destinations in Peru.

Architectures: The Spanish influence of Cusco is remarkably clear. But aspects of the Inca civilization seem to behold the local air, spreading a charm throughout the local architecture. In the historic center, for example, we have the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Cusco, the Temple of the Society of Jesus, the Stone of the 12 angles, the Temple of Qorikancha, the Sacred Garden and the Museum of the Archaeological Site of Qorikancha. , Cusco or the Monument to the Inca Pachacuti. These are Inca or Spanish points that historically mark the local architecture. The points have undergone changes over time and combine only the two characteristics (Inca and Spanish), taking history and architecture to a new level, Cusco.

Gastronomy: Peru has some of the most exquisite cuisine in the world, and Cusco leaves nothing to be desired! This is where the best Andean cuisines are, with high use of corn, potatoes, meat and seafood. The varieties of coffee found in Cusco are also prominent in gastronomic categories around the world. Some typical dishes of Cusco are: Timpo, a delicious soup, with vegetables and meats; Chuño Cola, a stew of Inca origin, made by boiling meat broth, sausages, chickpeas; Kapche cheese, a green bean soup, potatoes, cheese. Using meats, cheeses and grains are specialties of the gastronomy of Cusco, however the Peruvian seasoning is strongly present in all the dishes. An explosion of flavors, with meats, grains, cheeses and the climate of one of the most sought after destinations in the world!

With unique flavors, memorable experiences and impressive visuals, visiting Cusco is no longer just a tourist trip to become a cultural, memorable and historical experience.

Inspiring sources: Olhar direto, Cusco Peru and Get Outside.

Images: Street View