PLAZA DE ARMAS DEL CUSCO
Read moreAccording to legend, it was here that Manco Cápac planted his golden stick, thus indicating the point from which the future city was to develop. In an environment of ochre and green mountains, the square, on four sides, unwinds its arcades; the Catedral and the Iglesia de la Compañía enhance the most successful architectural ensemble of Peru. It is here that the Inti Raymi was celebrated, that Pizarro walked his triumph, that Manco Inca rose, that Túpac Amaru II was executed. It is a pleasure to sit here during the day and at night with the mountains watching over us.
CALLE HATUNRUMIYOC
Read moreThis is probably the most touristy pedestrian street in the city, but it is not to be missed. When you take Calle del Triunfo and head towards San Blas, it opens onto the Palacio Arzobispal. Very narrow, we go along its high walls and then we pass, at number 451, in front of the famous "stone of the twelve angles" where an Inca is planted to take the picture. Immediately after, on the right, we take the Pasaje Inca Roca where there are two other beautiful walls of the ancient palace of this sovereign. A lot of handicrafts at very cheap prices in this zone.
PLAZA LAS NAZARENAS
Read moreIn this quiet square, note the carved colonial porticos and the walls of the Yachayhuasi, or Temple of Knowledge, which form part of the façade of the Las Nazarenas church. We then pass by the Calle de las Siete Culebras and the Casa de las Serpientes. The imposing Casa Cabrera, belonging to the Banco Continental, was built in 1534 and houses the MAP. You can visit the 17th century church of San Antonio Abad,, with its elaborate doorway, as well as the monastery occupied by the luxurious Hotel Monasterio (free admission, see reception).