Sacsayhuamán
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It is the capital of the Department of Cusco and of the Cusco Province. The city is the seventh most populous in Peru; in 2017, it had a population of 428,450. Its elevation is around 3,400 m (11,200 ft). The city was the capital of the Inca Empire from the 13th century until the 16th-century Spanish conquest.
- Address: Portal de Comercio, Historic Center. 1 to 2 hours. TIME TO SPEND. The history of the Plaza de Armas stretches back all the way to the Inca Empire when it was called Huacaypata or Aucaypata.
- Address: Macchu Pichu Historic Sanctuary. Hiking, Sightseeing. TYPE. Half Day to Full Day.
- Address: 142 Portal Espinar. Churches/Religious Sites. TYPE. 1 to 2 hours. TIME TO SPEND. Amid the many splendors found in the Plaza de Armas, the sky-high La Catedral is one of Cusco's finest architectural displays.
- Address: Northwest of Historic Center. Sightseeing. TYPE. 2 hours to Half Day. TIME TO SPEND. Sacsayhuamán is often overshadowed by Machu Picchu, but this towering ancient Incan fortress – filled with exquisite stone masonry and dramatic vistas – is worth a visit.
Discover the ancient capital of Peru and the Inca Empire, where history, culture, and nature meet. Explore the attractions, experiences, and adventures of Cusco and its surroundings, from Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley.
Cuzco, city and Inca región, south-central Peru. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Western Hemisphere. Formerly the capital of the extensive Inca empire, it retains much of its highly crafted early stone architecture, which is typically preserved in the foundations and lower stories of Spanish colonial structures ...
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
- Pet a friendly alpaca. We’re kicking off this list with one of Peru’s most beloved animals: the alpaca. Known for its expensive wool, alpacas are treasured among Peruvians.
- Experience the grandeur of the Plaza de Armas. Equally important is visiting Cusco’s most famous plaza located in the heart of the city. The Plaza de Armas boasts spectacular architecture and views of the surrounding mountains.
- Take a picture with the famous Twelve-Angled Stone. Hidden in the narrow alleyways of the historical district is the Twelve-Angled stone. This architectural mystery has 12 perfectly-crafted angles that fit seamlessly into the Inca wall located in the alleyway of Hatunrumiyoc.
- Step into the past with a visit to Coricancha and Convent of Santo Domingo. Another addition to your list is Coricancha, the famous Inca Sun Temple located on Cusco’s main Avenida el Sol.
Discover Cuzco, the oldest continuously inhabited city and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Explore its attractions, history, culture, and cuisine with Lonely Planet's expert tips and recommendations.
Discover the ancient and colonial heritage of Cuzco, the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Find attractions, museums, articles, guidebooks and more to plan your trip to Peru.
