Cultural Exploration of Ayacucho with Family

First Day Back: Ayacucho's Warm Embrace

After years of living in Montreal, returning to Peru, especially to Ayacucho, felt like stepping back into a cherished memory. The familiar scent of Andean spices, the vibrant colors of the textiles, and the warmth of the people created an immediate sense of belonging. Today marked the beginning of our family's exploration of this historic city, and I couldn't wait to share its wonders with Sophie and Mateo.

Our journey began with a hearty breakfast at ViaVia Cafe Ayacucho. The cafe's location, right on the Plaza de Armas, provided the perfect setting to soak in the city's atmosphere. Sipping on strong Peruvian coffee and enjoying some delicious local pastries, we planned our day. Mateo was particularly excited, his eyes wide with curiosity as he looked out at the bustling square.


Experience culinary delight at ViaVia Cafe Ayacucho - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy setting.

Stepping out into the Plaza de Armas, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. As the largest square in Peru, it is surrounded by impressive colonial architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. The stone arches and red clay roofs create a picturesque scene, a true reflection of Ayacucho's historical legacy. I pointed out the four portals surrounding the plaza, each with its unique number of stone arches – a detail that fascinated Mateo.


Explore the vibrant cultural hub of Andahuaylas at Plaza de Armas, where history, beauty, and local life converge in perfect harmony.

The beauty of Ayacucho lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in the stories whispered by its ancient stones.

As we strolled through the plaza, I shared stories of my own childhood in Huancavelica, reminiscing about the vibrant markets and the warmth of Andean hospitality. It was important for me to connect Mateo with his Peruvian roots, to instill in him a sense of pride and belonging. Sophie, ever the historian, admired the blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and eclectic styles that adorned the buildings around us.

Our next stop was the magnificent Ayacucho Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Basilica of Santa María. Its construction, spanning from 1632 to 1672, reflects a blend of Renaissance and Baroque architectural elements. The pink stone at the center and gray stone in the towers create a striking contrast. Inside, the cathedral is adorned with ten altarpieces bathed in gold leaf, each dedicated to a different saint. I was particularly drawn to the altarpiece of Our Lady of the Snows, the cathedral's patron saint.


Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Ayacucho Cathedral, a cultural landmark in the heart of Peru's stunning Ayacucho region.

I explained to Mateo the significance of the cathedral in shaping the city's artistic traditions, particularly the development of retablos. These ornate religious dioramas, crafted with intricate papier-mâché designs, depict scenes from the Bible and rural life in Peru. The cathedral's role as a silent witness to the city's development over the past 350 years added another layer of depth to our visit. The kids were fascinated by stories of the Spanish conquistadors and the clash between indigenous and colonial cultures.

For lunch, we ventured to La Huamanguina, a restaurant known for its traditional Ayacucho cuisine. We savored local dishes like puca picante, a spicy stew made with potatoes, peanuts, and pork, and mondongo, a hearty soup with tripe. Mateo, adventurous as always, tried a bit of everything, while Sophie enjoyed the flavors of the Andes. The restaurant's cozy ambiance and friendly service made it a perfect spot to relax and recharge.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at La Huamanguina in Ayacucho - where every dish tells a story.

In the afternoon, we explored the Centro Artesanal Shosaku Nagase, a vibrant artisan market offering a wide array of handcrafted souvenirs. From huamanga stone carvings to intricate altarpieces, leather goods, and colorful textiles, the market was a treasure trove of Peruvian artistry. I was particularly impressed by the skill and dedication of the local artisans, each piece telling a unique story of Ayacucho's cultural heritage.


Explore the vibrant artistry of Peru at Centro Artesanal Shosaku Nagase, your destination for unique crafts and cultural treasures in Ayacucho.

Mateo was captivated by the process of creating these intricate crafts, watching the artisans weave fabrics and carve stones with incredible precision. We purchased a small retablo depicting a traditional Andean family, a reminder of our journey and a symbol of our connection to Peru. Sophie found a beautiful hand-woven shawl, its vibrant colors reflecting the spirit of Ayacucho.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Mestizo, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian dishes. The chef came out to speak with us, explaining the ingredients and preparation methods of each dish. I am always excited to learn more about the cuisine of my homeland. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, a perfect way to end our first day in Ayacucho.


Discover Mestizo in Ayacucho: A perfect blend of traditional Peruvian flavors and artistic ambiance.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share my heritage with my family. Ayacucho had welcomed us with open arms, its historical charm and cultural richness leaving a lasting impression on our hearts. As we walked back to our guesthouse, Mateo held my hand, his eyes filled with wonder.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Ayacucho's history by visiting the Complejo Arqueológico Wari and Museo de Sitio Wari. I am eager to explore the ancient Wari culture and learn more about their contributions to Peruvian history. We will also enjoy breakfast at Aroma's Café & Crepes, lunch at Restaurante Las Flores, and dinner at Restaurant KIBO. To cap off the day, we might visit PACHAMAMA CAFE BAR for a relaxing evening drink.

This journey is not just a vacation; it's a homecoming, a rediscovery of roots, and a celebration of family. I am excited to continue sharing our experiences with you, hoping to inspire others to explore the hidden gems of Peru.

Though I missed my raincoat today as the weather turned in the afternoon, and realized I should have brushed up on my Spanish before arriving, I am very happy to be in Ayacucho with my family. The experience of walking the same streets as my ancestors, seeing the architecture and feeling the culture is something I will cherish forever.