Cusco

Mention Cusco to any young Peruvian and they are likely to smile and say, "very good party town", with a look of fond remembrance. Whilst the hub of the so-called 'Gringo trail' does indeed have enough clubs, bars and carefree international backpackers larging it loud and late to satisfy even the most gregarious of visitors, its rich historical heritage as the ancient Incan capital and the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas means Cusco has much to offer culturally.

Within the city, the church of Santa Domingo was built on the walls of the Koriacha Temple of the Sun and contains some excellent examples of Incan stonework.

Ravaged by the conquistadores who removed 700 gold sheets, each weighing 2kg, from the temple and melted down untold Incan artifacts, One can only reflect on its former significance and beauty.

In the central gringo zone of the Plaza de Armas, Cusco cathedral was built on an Incan palace. Begun in 1550, and constructed over one hundred years, it contains many paintings including the famous 'Last Supper' by Zapata, where Guinea pigs and Chicha (maize beer) feature heavily on the menu!

To the right of the cathedral is 'El Triunfo', site of the Incan armory and of much aggravation during the siege of 1536. This, the oldest of Cusco's churches was built after a 'miraculous' respite from fire which threatened the surrounded Spaniards whose subsequent victory was hailed as an act of God.

Click here for information on the Incan ruins around Cusco such as Saysaqwaman and Puca-Pucara