Located in the heart of the Andes, the city Cusco, Peru, carries with it all the culture and influence of the Incas and Spaniards in architecture and gastronomy. The union of influence of distinct peoples is one of the most striking points for tourism in Cusco, but these influences have not remained stagnated 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 the legends, Cusco was founded by a couple of brothers, also founders of the Inca Empire, on a pilgrimage to the 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 Spaniards in 1533, through various combats, many held in the historic center of Cusco, in the Plaza de Armas, landmark and representative of Cusco On many postcards. In 1821, Peru declared its independence and Cusco remained in its importance of 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 World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and is the main starting point for Machu Picchu. Together, they are the main tourist destinations of Peru.     Architectures: The Spanish influence of Cusco is remarkably clear. But aspects of the Inca civilization seem to contemplate the local air, spreading a charm throughout the local architecture. In the historical center, for example, we have the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Cusco, Temple of the Company of Jesus, the Stone of the 12 angles, the Temple of Qorikancha, the Sacred Garden and Museum of the Archaeological Site of Qorikancha, Cusco or the Monument to the Inca Pachacuti. These are Inca or Spanish points that historically mark local architecture. Points have undergone changes over time and merge uniquely the two characteristics (Inca and Spanish), taking history and architecture to a new level, the Cusco.     Gastronomy: Peru has one of the most exquisite cuisines in the world, and Cusco, does not leave anything to be desired! This is where the best Andean kitchens stand, with high use of corn, potatoes, meats and seafood. The coffee varieties found in Cusco are also prominent in gourmet 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 in beef broth, sausages, chickpeas; Kapche Cheese, a green bean soup, potato, cheese. Using meats, cheeses and grains are specialties of the gastronomy of Cusco, however the Peruvian seasoning is strongly present in all 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 stunning visuals, visiting Cusco ceases to be just a tourist trip to be a cultural, memorable and historical experience.   Inspirational sources: Olhar direto, Cusco Peru e Get Outside. Images: Street View