Exploring the Heart of the Inca Empire: A Journey to Cusco

San Blas Charms & Historical Gems

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the artistic and historical heart of Cusco. We ventured into the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisans and stunning views, and delved into the city's past at the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco. It was a day of exploration, good food, and soaking in the unique atmosphere of this Andean city.


Our day started, as usual, with a great breakfast at El Jardin - Healthy Food And Coffee. The fresh juices and avocado toast gave us the perfect energy boost for a day of walking and exploring. Olivia particularly enjoyed the Andean pasta, while I savored their delicious coffee. It's amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day.

Fueled up, we made our way to Plazoleta de San Blas. The neighborhood itself is a gem, with its narrow, cobblestone streets and white-washed buildings adorned with colorful flowers. It felt like stepping back in time. The Plazoleta is a central gathering place, surrounded by artisan shops and galleries. We took our time wandering through the area, admiring the local craftsmanship and soaking in the bohemian atmosphere.


Discover the artistic charm of Plazoleta de San Blas in Cusco, where vibrant culture meets breathtaking views in a historic setting.

San Blas is often called the artisans’ quarter, and it’s easy to see why. Every corner seemed to reveal a new workshop or gallery, showcasing everything from intricate wood carvings to vibrant paintings. Olivia, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly captivated by the textiles and ceramics. I was more drawn to the history of the place. San Blas was known as T'oqokachi, or Salt Cave in Quechua, during the Inca Empire. It was home to important families dedicated to architecture and craftsmanship. The Spanish later renamed it San Blas in honor of a bishop. You can really feel the blend of Andean and European influences in the architecture and the art.

After exploring the Plazoleta, we headed to the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco, also known as Casa Garcilaso. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building that was once the home of Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, a famous chronicler of Inca history. I found his story particularly compelling – born of mixed Inca and Spanish heritage, he dedicated his life to documenting the history and culture of his ancestors. The museum itself is a journey through Cusco's past, from pre-Inca times to the colonial era. I was fascinated by the exhibits on local geography, flora, and fauna, as well as the displays of Inca artifacts and colonial art. Olivia was impressed by the artwork and paintings from the Cusco School of Art.


Explore the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco, a captivating journey through Peru's rich Incan and colonial heritage.

Sometimes, the most rewarding travel experiences come from simply wandering and allowing yourself to be absorbed by the atmosphere of a place.

Lunch was at Mamá Jama Restaurant, where we enjoyed some traditional Peruvian cuisine. Olivia had the grilled chicken, while I opted for the trout. We also tried the chicha morada, a local drink made from purple corn. The restaurant had a calm atmosphere and modern decor, making it a relaxing spot to refuel after our museum visit. It was so delicious and the staff were very friendly.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mamá Jama Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

In the afternoon, we did some shopping at Qori Art Cusco, a shop we stumbled upon while wandering through San Blas. They had a beautiful collection of jewelry, ceramics, and textiles. We picked up a few souvenirs for our families back home, hoping to share a small piece of Cusco with them. I got a small ceramic bull for my mom, as I know she loves collecting them and it will be a great reminder of our trip.


Discover unique Peruvian handicrafts and souvenirs at Qori Art Cusco, a must-visit gift shop for every traveler in the heart of Cusco.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at El Viejo Bar, a cozy spot known for its local drinks and lively atmosphere. We enjoyed some Pisco Sours while listening to live music. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar had a rustic decor that reflected the rich cultural heritage of Cusco. It was a great mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the vibrant nightlife.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at El Viejo Bar, where local flavors and live music create an unforgettable experience.

Before heading back to Hotel Polo Corporativo, we made one last stop at LIMBUS RESTOBAR for dinner. The views from there were incredible. It was the perfect way to end the day, overlooking the twinkling lights of Cusco. I had the Lomo Saltado, and Olivia tried the Aji de Gallina. We shared a bottle of local beer and enjoyed the cozy atmosphere. The staff was very friendly, and the service was excellent.


Discover exquisite Peruvian cuisine and stunning views at Limbus Restobar in Cusco – where every bite tells a story.

Holy Week is in full swing here in Cusco. We learned that today, Maundy Thursday, is traditionally marked by visiting seven churches. We didn't manage to visit all seven, but we felt the spiritual atmosphere of the city nonetheless. Tomorrow, Good Friday, will bring an even more solemn atmosphere as the city commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore San Cristobal and Plaza Regocijo. We're also hoping to do some more shopping at KUNA Plaza de Armas and maybe grab a drink at Papacho Bar Cultural. We're trying to make the most of our last few days here in Cusco, soaking in all the history, culture, and delicious food that this amazing city has to offer.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Cusco has a way of captivating you with its charm and history. It's a city that stays with you long after you've left. Tonight, I'm especially thankful to be sharing this adventure with Olivia. Her perspective and enthusiasm always add so much to our travels. I am so glad we decided to come to Cusco for this trip, and I know that the memories we are creating here will be with us forever.