The Cathedral of Cusco: History and Architecture

The Cathedral of Cusco. This magnificent structure is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the encounter between two worlds: the Inca Empire and the Spanish colonization. Its majestic facade and rich history are full of mystery and details that captivate every visitor. Would you like to discover the secrets hidden in this historical monument? Join us on this journey as we explore the history and architecture of the Cathedral of Cusco.

Origin and History of the Cathedral of Cusco

The construction of the Cathedral of Cusco dates back to the time of Spanish colonization when Cusco was a key city for the Viceroyalty of Peru. Before it was a cathedral, the site where it stands today was Suntur Wasi, also known as the former palace of Viracocha Inca, an important Inca emperor. With the arrival of the Spanish, it was decided to build a cathedral that would represent Spanish dominance and the power of the Catholic Church over the local inhabitants.

A Long and Complex Construction Process

The construction of the cathedral was a long and complicated process, taking over a century, from 1560 to 1640. The cathedral was designed in a Renaissance style with Gothic and Baroque influences, and the workers used techniques they had learned from the Incas, combining the best of both cultures.

Did you know? Many of the stones used for the construction came from Sacsayhuamán, a nearby Inca fortress, reflecting indigenous influence in this imposing colonial work.

A Symbol of Religious Power

The Cathedral of Cusco is not only important from an architectural point of view but also symbolizes the religious power that the Catholic Church exerted over the newly conquered territory. It was built to be the main religious center of the city, and today it remains a place of great importance for the people of Cusco.

Architecture of the Cathedral of Cusco

The Cathedral of Cusco is an architectural masterpiece that combines different styles, making it a fascinating monument to explore. Let’s take a look at some of its most notable architectural features.

Imposing Facade and Renaissance Style

As you approach the cathedral, the first thing that catches your eye is its imposing facade. Built mainly in gray andesite stone, the facade follows a classic Renaissance style, with its columns and arches reflecting European art. However, if you look closely, you will notice some details that recall Inca influence.

The design includes two twin towers (bell towers) and three large gates, decorated with details that enhance the solemnity of the building. Along the facade, you can also see religious symbols such as crosses, shields, and floral elements that represent the wealth of the church.

Interior: Baroque Style Rich in Detail

Upon entering the cathedral, you are immersed in a world of Baroque art, with ornate details that reflect the magnificence of the Catholic Church in colonial times. The altars, covered in gold and decorated with sculptures of saints, are one of the main attractions inside.

One of the most impressive elements is the main altar, made of silver, which represents the wealth and power of the Church at that time. The interior ornamentation is rich in Catholic symbols but also incorporates some details that remind us of the Inca presence, such as cherubs with Andean features.

 The Carved Wooden Choir

Another of the cathedral’s treasures is its carved wooden choir, which is considered one of the finest examples of colonial art in South America. Each seat in the choir is finely decorated with religious figures and floral motifs.

Side Chapels and Altarpieces

The Cathedral of Cusco also features several side chapels, each with its own altarpiece decorated with religious images and golden elements. Highlights include the Chapel of the Virgin of Remedies and the Chapel of the Lord of the Tremors, the patron saint of Cusco.

Colonial Art in the Cathedral of Cusco

The Cathedral of Cusco houses an extraordinary collection of paintings and sculptures, many of which come from the famous Cusco School of Art, which flourished in the 17th century. This school merged European elements with indigenous techniques and styles, resulting in unique works of art.

The Lord of the Tremors

One of the most revered figures in Cusco is found inside the cathedral: the Lord of the Tremors, a crucified Christ figure deeply connected to the city’s seismic history. It is said that in 1650, when an earthquake struck Cusco, this image was carried in a procession, and miraculously, the earthquake ceased. Since then, it has been considered the protector of Cusco, and every year during Holy Week, a procession is held in his honor.

Paintings of the Cusco School

The Cusco School emerged in the 17th century and stood out for its unique style, combining European painting techniques with iconographic details from Andean culture. In the cathedral, several works from this school can be admired, many of which depict religious scenes but with a local touch.

The Last Supper with a cuy

One of the most curious paintings in the cathedral is the depiction of The Last Supper, painted by Marcos Zapata. What makes this work special is that, instead of the traditional bread and wine, Jesus and his disciples are shown sharing a guinea pig, a typical Andean dish. This detail highlights how local artists reinterpreted European religious themes with elements of their own culture.

Temples Adjacent to the Cathedral

Today, the architectural complex consists of three temples. To the left of the facade is the Church of the Holy Family, in the center is the Basilica Cathedral, and to the right is the Church of Triumph.

The Church of Triumph

Built in 1539, it initially served as the city’s Cathedral. In this first construction, Friar Vicente Valverde placed the cross he had brought from Spain, known as the Cross of the Conquest, which remains in the same place corresponding to the main altar of this temple.

On the main facade, the image of Our Lady of the Assumption was placed in memory of the victory of the Spanish over Manco Inca in 1536, hence the name “Triumph.”

This work, along with its protective walls and three doors, was completed in 1664. Built with andesite stone, the temple consists of three naves: the Epistle, the Gospel, and the central nave. The entrance to the Church of Triumph is through the cathedral’s lower choir.

The Church of the Holy Family

On September 13, 1723, the foundation stone was laid to begin construction of the Church of the Holy Family, also known as the Church of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, commissioned by Bishop Gabriel de Arregui. After the architect’s death, work resumed in 1733 and was completed on September 3, 1735.

In 1996, with the support of the Archdiocese of Cusco and the European Union, the temple was fully restored after being closed for nearly 30 years due to its poor state of conservation.

The temple consists of a Latin cross-shaped nave with a rectangular floor plan and small side niches. The interior walls are made of polished stone covered with lime plaster. The entire church is also built with andesite.

The Role of the Cathedral in Cusco’s Culture

The Cathedral of Cusco is not only a historical and artistic monument but also a place of great importance for the city’s culture and religion. Over the centuries, it has witnessed significant religious and cultural events that have shaped Cusco’s identity.

Processions and Festivities

The cathedral is the center of several religious celebrations throughout the year. During Holy Week, the image of the Lord of the Tremors is carried in procession through the streets of the city, attracting thousands of faithful. Other important festivities include Corpus Christi, during which the carriage and procession of the 15 saints and virgins take place, with the cathedral playing a central role in the celebrations.

The Cathedral of Cusco as a World Heritage Site

The historical and cultural importance of the Cathedral of Cusco was recognized in 1983 when it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition reinforces the value of the cathedral not only as a symbol of religion but also as a testament to Cusco’s rich history and its role in Peru’s history.

Hours and Prices

To enter the Basilica Cathedral of Cusco, the general price is PEN 25, and the student price is PEN 12.50, from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Cathedral of Cusco is a living testimony of the history, architecture, and art that emerged from the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures. From its imposing facade to its interior filled with artistic treasures, the cathedral remains one of the most important and fascinating places in Cusco.
If you’re planning to visit Cusco, you can’t miss including the Cathedral of Cusco in your itinerary. Not only will you be amazed by its architecture and art, but you will also immerse yourself in the rich history that this cathedral represents.