The City of Cusco: History, Festivities and Curious Facts

Did you know that Cusco is not only the gateway to Machu Picchu, but also a city full of history, culture and unique traditions? Whether you are a foreign or Peruvian tourist, the City of Cusco has a lot to offer. From its fascinating history as the capital of the Inca Empire to its vibrant festivities, this article will take you through everything that makes Cusco a special destination. Read on and be amazed!

Cusco City History

Cusco is known as the “Historical Capital of Peru” and its history dates back more than 3,000 years. It was the heart of the Inca Empire, founded, according to legend, by Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo. Both were sent by the Sun God from Lake Titicaca in search of a place where they could nail their gold bar to found their empire.

Both walked until they reached the hill of Huanacauri, located near a valley. There they tried to sink the gold bar into the ground, and when they succeeded easily, they interpreted this as a sign that they should found the city. Then, the brothers and kings separated to summon and attract the people, with the purpose of indoctrinating them and fulfilling the demands of the Sun God.

Cusco experienced significant growth after the collapse of the Tiahuanaco kingdom, which caused a migration of its people. It is estimated that around 500 men settled in the Huatanay River valley, which marked the official founding of Cusco. Although the exact date of its origin is unknown, it is estimated that the city has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years.

During its heyday, Cusco was the political, spiritual, religious and cultural center of the Inca Empire. This was possible thanks to the rule of Pachacútec and his son Túpac Yupanqui, who, for five decades, dedicated themselves to organizing and consolidating their vassal towns. They also expanded the empire from Quito in the north to the Maule River in the south.

It is said that Pachacutec designed the original layout of the city of Cusco in the shape of a puma. In this design, the Plaza de Armas represented the chest of the animal, while the Sacsayhuaman fortress formed its head.

With the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century, Cusco maintained its resistance against the Viceroyalty during the first years, until the dynasty of Manco Inca came to an end. After this, the city was transformed, merging the Inca architecture with the colonial style. A clear example of this fusion is the temple of Qorikancha, whose Inca foundations served as the basis for the construction of a colonial church.

This unique blend of cultures makes Cusco a fascinating place to explore, with a rich history and architecture that reflects its imperial and colonial past.

Festivities in Cusco

Cusco is a lively city, full of celebrations that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the most important ones:

• > Holy Week: It lasts a whole week and its date depends on the lunar calendar so the date is movable and can be in March or April
• > Inti Raymi: Celebrated every June 24, this is the Festival of the Sun, a modern recreation of an Inca ceremony that honors the Sun God.
• > Corpus Christi: A religious festival that mixes Andean and Catholic traditions. On this occasion, Cusco’s main images of saints and virgins are carried in procession.
• > Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen: Celebrated in Paucartambo, a few hours from Cusco, this festival is known for its traditional dances and colorful costumes.

If you want to know what more festivals are held and can coincide with your visit to Cusco you can read the blog The festivities of Cusco you will be surprised by the amount of festivities that Cusco has to offer.

Curious facts about the city of Cusco

1. The navel of the world: The name “Cusco” comes from the Quechua “Qosqo”, which means “navel of the world”. For the Incas, this city was the center of the universe.
2. Resistant architecture: The Inca stone foundations are so solid that they have withstood earthquakes that destroyed colonial structures.
3. The stone of the 12 angles: This famous stone is located in the San Blas neighborhood and is an example of the incredible work of Inca engineering.
4. The streets of the number seven: Cusco has seven streets that begin with this cabalistic number: Siete Culebras, Siete Ventanas, Siete Mascarones, Siete Cuartones, Siete Angelitos, Siete Diablitos and Siete Borreguitos. These streets are full of history and mystery, inviting visitors to discover their meaning on their next trip.
5. Shape of a puma: Historians believe that the city of Cusco was drawn urbanistically in the shape of a puma, a sacred animal in the Inca cosmovision that symbolizes the earth.
6. The flag of Cusco: Often confused with the LGBT pride flag, the flag of Cusco represents the Tawantinsuyo, the ancient Inca empire.

Climate, Altitude and Travel Tips

• > Altitude: Cusco is at 3,399 masl / 11,156 fasl, which can cause altitude sickness. Take a day to acclimatize and drink coca tea.
• > Climate: Cusco has two main seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). Temperatures range between 4.2 °C and 20 °C so its climate is generally dry and temperate.
• > Money: The official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). Carry cash for markets and small businesses, although some accept credit cards.
• > Recommended luggage: Bring light clothes for the day, warm clothes for the evenings and a raincoat during the rainy season.
• > Language: In Cusco the most spoken language is Spanish followed by Quechua and English, although only the tourist sector speaks English, if you want to talk to a local we recommend you to know some phrases in Spanish.

What is the most famous neighborhood in the city of Cusco?

The neighborhood of San Blas, it is a unique neighborhood known for its artisan community with its cobblestone streets and stars, full of workshops and craft stores.

San Blas is also known for being the home of the artisan Hilario Mendivil, famous for his religious figures with elongated necks, a distinctive feature of his style. In addition, in the neighborhood you can find diverse artistic expressions such as wood carvings, ceramics and traditional weavings.

This neighborhood not only stands out for its art, but also for its architectural beauty and bohemian atmosphere. In its main square is the Church of San Blas, one of the oldest in Cusco, which houses an impressive pulpit carved in cedar wood, considered a masterpiece of colonial art.

Tips for visiting Cusco

• > Explore on foot: Many of Cusco’s cobblestone streets are ideal for walking, especially around the Plaza de Armas and San Blas.
• > Stay close to the center: Staying in a hotel in Cusco near the Plaza de Armas will allow you to enjoy the city comfortably.
• > Don’t take too much luggage: When you are in Cusco you will want to buy many souvenirs and accessories
• > Beware of altitude sickness: Your first day in Cusco should be one of rest and adaptation to the altitude of Cusco
• > Use sunscreen: It is good to take care of your skin, in case you are going to do some hiking also take repellent.
• > Try the gastronomy: Cusco has a wide range of dishes for tasting, but try to eat in moderation and ask locals or guides what combinations of dishes you can make as a foreigner to avoid an upset stomach.
• > Plan your outings in advance: If you have a hike or trek in Cusco, prepare your backpack a night before, if you are going out to discos in Cusco, do not do it too late or you will not be able to do your hike, as the hikes are usually strenuous.

What to do in Cusco?

In Cusco you can enjoy a wide variety of activities, from historical tours to outdoor adventures. Some of the most outstanding experiences include:

• > Exploring the Historic Center, full of Inca temples and colonial churches, where history and architecture merge in every corner.
• > Take a city tour to visit impressive archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Qorikancha and Tambomachay.
• > Visit Instagram-worthy places, such as the picturesque Siete Borreguitos street and the impressive viewpoints of Cusco, from where you get a panoramic view of the city.
• > Take unforgettable hikes, such as the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Jungle, which offer spectacular scenery and a unique connection with nature.
• > Take unmissable tours, such as the Sacred Valley, the South Valley of Cusco, the Colored Mountain and, of course, the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.

Where to stay in Cusco?

If you are looking for comfort and good location, the historic center of Cusco is the best option. Staying near the Plaza de Armas guarantees easy access to restaurants, stores and tourist sites. Options such as a Cusco Lodge Hotel Boutique offer a unique experience, combining comfort with a cozy atmosphere.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Cusco Lodge Hotel Boutique (@cusco_lodge_hotel_boutique)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Cusco known as the navel of the world?

This meaning was proposed by Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, who stated that the name “Cusco” was used because, in the language of the Incas, it means “navel of the earth”. This denomination is due to the resemblance of Peru with a long and narrow human body, the city being located almost in the center of the Peruvian territory.

Altitude sickness in Cusco?

Our team is specialized in guest care in case you suffer from severe or moderate altitude sickness, we have an oxygen balloon and quick access in case you require ambulance, we will monitor your acclimatization so you can enjoy the other days with total normality of your trip in Cusco.

What are the most visited tourist places in Cusco?

Machu Picchu is the crown of Cusco and receives many visitors throughout the year, followed by the mountain of colors, humantay lagoon, sacred valley, sacsayhuaman and if you want to know more tourist places in Cusco click here.

Are there museums in the city of Cusco?

Yes, there are different museums in different periods such as pre-Columbian, pre-Inca, Inca and more. All of them are located in the historic center of Cusco, very close to the main square.

Is there a tour package that will take me to the sights of Cusco?

You want to know different places, but at your choice and you do not find a package on the internet that meets your expectations request a personalized tour to Inka time giving details of what places you want to know and they put together an itinerary for you giving you breaks to enjoy your trip in Cusco.

Can seniors visit Cusco?

Yes, people of all ages can visit Cusco but do not forget to listen to your body and give you the necessary breaks to better enjoy your trip, if you are older it is recommended to hire private tours so you are not being rushed by the passage of other passengers.

What is my tourist agency in Cusco will come to pick me up at your hotel?

Yes, it is one of the benefits of our location, whichever tour agency you hire will have no problem in coming to pick you up at the door of Cusco Lodge Hotel Boutique.

The city of Cusco is a destination that captivates everyone with its history, festivities and culture. Whether you are interested in learning about its Inca past, enjoying its colorful celebrations or simply strolling its charming streets, Cusco has something for everyone. Plan your trip, find a good hotel in Cusco and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the “Capital of the Inca Empire”.