Solo Cultural Adventure in Cusco: Exploring the Heart of the Incan Empire

First Impressions of Cusco: A Journey Through Time

Arriving in Cusco felt like stepping into a living history book. The air is crisp and thin, a stark contrast to Bristol, but the energy of this ancient city is palpable. Today, my first day in Cusco, was dedicated to exploring the historical heart of the city. I was eager to delve into the rich tapestry of Incan and Spanish colonial influences, and I wasn't disappointed. Today was all about soaking in the atmosphere of Cusco, a city that has been at the center of Andean civilization for centuries.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at El Jardin - Healthy Food And Coffee. The cafe is located right on Plaza de Armas, offering a stunning view of the square as I sipped my coffee and enjoyed a delicious, healthy meal. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The cafe had a wide range of vegan options, and the staff was very kind, ensuring I had everything I needed. I found a great way to start the day with a healthy meal and a strong cup of coffee.


Discover healthy vegetarian cuisine at El Jardin in Cusco's vibrant Plaza de Armas - where flavor meets wellness.

Plaza Mayor de Cusco: The Heart of the City

From El Jardin, I ventured into the Plaza Mayor de Cusco, the main square that has been the city's central hub since before the Spanish arrived in 1534. Known as Huacaypata during the Inca Empire, it was the site of grand celebrations, religious rituals, and military victories. The square is surrounded by stunning colonial architecture, including the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. The fountain in the center, adorned with a golden figure of Pachacuti, the most renowned Incan emperor, added a spiritual touch to the scene.


Discover the vibrant spirit of Cusco at the Plaza Mayor, a cultural hub surrounded by historic architecture and local Peruvian delights.

The history of the Plaza Mayor is fascinating. During the Inca Empire, this area was a swamp that the Incas drained and transformed into the administrative, religious, and cultural center of their capital. After the Spanish conquest, the square was transformed into a plaza, with Catholic temples and mansions built on the ruins of Inca palaces. It was here that Túpac Amaru II was executed in 1781, along with other heroes of Peruvian independence. Today, the Plaza de Armas is surrounded by tourist restaurants, jewelry stores, and travel agencies, but it still retains its historical charm. The light rain today added a unique ambiance to the plaza. The stones glistened, and the surrounding buildings seemed to absorb the soft, diffused light, creating a serene atmosphere. It was a welcome change, and it made the experience all the more memorable.

Cusco Cathedral: A Blend of Worlds

Next, I visited the Cusco Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin. Construction began in 1559 on the foundations of the destroyed Inca temple of Kiswarkancha and took nearly a century to complete, finishing in 1654. The cathedral's architecture is a blend of Gothic-Renaissance and Baroque styles. The facade is Renaissance, contrasting with the elaborate interiors showcasing gold leaf and intricate carvings. The cathedral was built using stones from Sacsayhuamán, a nearby Inca fortress, and the labor was provided by the local indigenous population.


Explore the stunning Cusco Cathedral, a breathtaking blend of history and faith in the heart of Peru's cultural capital.

Inside, the cathedral is breathtaking. The soaring ceilings, ornate altars, and numerous chapels create a sense of awe. One of the most striking features is the main altar, embossed in silver. The cathedral also houses a significant collection of colonial art, including paintings from the Cusqueña School, where Inca craftsmen were taught Spanish religious artistic techniques. The blend of European and indigenous styles is evident throughout the cathedral, a testament to the complex history of Cusco.

To truly appreciate Cusco, one must embrace the fusion of its Incan heritage and Spanish colonial influence, understanding that the city's beauty lies in the layers of history etched into its very stones.

Qorikancha: The Golden Temple

My final stop of the morning was Qorikancha, also known as the “Golden Temple.” This was the most sacred sanctuary of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the worship of Inti, the Sun God. The temple was built during the reign of Pachacútec Inca Yupanqui and was once covered in sheets of gold. The walls were lined with gold, and the courtyard was filled with golden statues.


Discover the sacred beauty of Qorikancha, an iconic Inca temple that merges history and spirituality in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

Qorikancha served as the spiritual nucleus of the Inca Empire, attracting pilgrims from across Tahuantinsuyo. The Sapa Inca, high priests, and nobility had exclusive access, performing sacred rituals in the gold-plated inner sanctums. After the Spanish conquest, the Santo Domingo Convent was built on the site, incorporating much of the original stonework. Today, visitors can see the remarkable preservation of Inca stonework alongside the Spanish colonial architecture, providing a tangible link to the past.

Lunch at Pachapapa: A Taste of Cusco

For lunch, I chose Pachapapa, a restaurant specializing in Cusquenian cuisine. Located in the San Blas neighborhood, the restaurant has a charming, rustic atmosphere. I sat outdoors, watching as my food was prepared in the wood-fired oven. I decided to try the ají de gallina, a traditional Peruvian dish made with chicken, cream, and chili peppers. It was delicious and comforting, the perfect way to warm up on a cool Cusco afternoon.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Pachapapa prides itself on serving high-quality, fresh food, and I could taste the difference. The flavors were rich and authentic, and the service was excellent. I also tried the chica morada, a local non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn. It was a refreshing and unique beverage that complemented my meal perfectly.

Handicraft Center Cusco: A Shopper's Paradise

In the afternoon, I explored the Handicraft Center Cusco, a vibrant hub of Andean culture and craftsmanship. Located at the intersection of Avenida El Sol and Avenida Tullumayo, this expansive center hosts over 350 stores, making it the largest craft market in Cusco. Here, I found a vast array of high-quality products, including Andean jewelry, intricately woven textiles, alpaca wool clothing, and colorful pottery. Each item reflected the rich cultural heritage of the region.


Explore the Handicraft Center Cusco for authentic Peruvian crafts and unique souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and artistry of the Andean region.

The Handicraft Center was not just about shopping; it was an immersive cultural experience. I watched artisans working on their crafts, learning about the artistic processes firsthand. The center also included art galleries featuring modern crafts inspired by pre-Columbian art, detailed silverware, and paintings. I purchased a beautiful alpaca scarf as a souvenir for Eleanor and a small wooden toy for Kenji. I am still missing sunscreen and an adapter for my electronics, but I will get them tomorrow.

Dinner at Chicha por Gaston Acurio: A Culinary Delight

For dinner, I indulged in a meal at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, a restaurant known for its innovative Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant is located on Plaza Regocijo and offers a sophisticated dining experience. I started with the carpaccio of alpaca, followed by the trout, rocoto relleno. For dessert, I savored the chocolate soufflés, a perfect ending to a day of culinary exploration.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Chicha por Gaston Acurio in Cusco's vibrant Plaza Regocijo.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Saqsaywaman, Q'enqo Archaeological Complex, and Tambomachay. I am looking forward to exploring these ancient sites and learning more about the Inca civilization. I might visit LIMBUS RESTOBAR to relax and enjoy the evening. I'll be sure to have my camera ready to capture the beauty of these historical landmarks.

As the sun set over Cusco, casting a golden glow on the Plaza de Armas, I reflected on my first day in this remarkable city. The blend of cultures, the stunning architecture, and the warm hospitality of the people made for an unforgettable experience. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings and to continue my exploration of this fascinating region.

“Cusco is more than just a destination; it's an experience that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul, leaving an indelible mark on every traveler who walks its ancient streets.”