Ayacucho: The Heart of Andean Culture

• HelloQ'allari
  [kai-yar-ri]
• GoodbyeAllinllachu
  [ai-yin-yah-chu]
• YesArí
  [ah-ree]
• NoMana
  [mah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeP'as
  [pas]
• Thank youSulpayki
  [sol-pai-ki]
• Excuse me/SorryUma
  [oo-mah]
• How are you?Ima kashanki?
  [ee-mah ka-shan-ki]
• Fine. And you?Allillan. Ñoqanchik?
  [ai-yin-yan. nyok-an-chik]
• Do you speak English?Inglis simikuyki?
  [ing-lees see-mee-kooi-ki]
• I don't understandManam kani
  [mah-nam ka-nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenuyta rimaykuykichu, p'as
  [men-ooi-ta ree-mai-kooi-ki-chu, pas]
• I don't eat meatKarne mana mikuy
  [kar-nay mah-nah mee-kooi]
• Cheers!¡Jallalla!
  [jai-yai-yai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMayqanapura hatunaykichu, p'as
  [mai-kan-a-poo-ra ha-too-nai-ki-chu, pas]

• Help!¡Allillanchu!
  [ai-yin-yahn-chu]
• Go away!¡Ñukanchu!
  [nyoo-kan-chu]
• Call the Police!Llamanki polis
  [yam-an-ki pol-ease]
• Call a doctor!Llamanki tukuy?
  [yam-an-ki too-kooi]
• I'm lostWaqaqmi
  [wak-ak-mi]
• I'm illNiranki
  [nee-ran-ki]

• I'd like to buy...Rikuchiykichu...
  [ree-koo-chi-ki-chu]
• I'm just lookingÑoqayku rimay
  [nyo-ka-i-ku ree-mai]
• How much is it?Imaqa chaymanchu?
  [ee-ma-ka chai-man-chu]
• That's too expensiveKaymi chaymanchu
  [kai-mi chai-man-chu]
• Can you lower the price?Chaymanchuta kachkanchikuyki?
  [chai-man-chu-ta kach-kan-chi-koi-ki]

• What time is it?Ima kashan?
  [ee-ma ka-shan]
• It's one o'clockTukuy ñiqin
  [too-kooi nyi-keen]
• Half past (10)Iskay ñiqin puriq
  [ees-kai nyi-keen poo-reek]
• MorningP'unchay
  [poon-chai]
• AfternoonCh'askay
  [chaskai]
• EveningT'ikray
  [tee-krai]
• YesterdayInti punchaw
  [een-tee poon-chow]
• TodayKachun
  [ka-choon]
• TomorrowKutin
  [koo-teen]
• 1Huk
  [hook]
• 2Iskay
  [ees-kai]
• 3Kimsa
  [keem-sah]
• 4Tawa
  [tah-wah]
• 5Pichqa
  [peech-ka]
• 6Soqta
  [sok-tah]
• 7Qanchis
  [kan-chees]
• 8Pusaq
  [poos-ak]
• 9Isqun
  [ees-koon]
• 10Chunka
  [choon-kah]

• Where's a/the...?Maypin...
  [mai-pin]
• What's the address?Maypin ñan?
  [mai-pin nyahn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mapata rimaykuykichu?
  [mapa-ta ree-mai-kooi-ki-chu]
• When's the next (bus)?Kay p'ishta?
  [kai pees-ta]
• A ticket (to ....)Kuchuy (kutin...)
  [koo-choo-i (koo-teen)]

Ayacucho was once the heart of the Wari Empire, a pre-Incan civilization that thrived between 500 and 1000 AD. The Wari left behind impressive archaeological sites such as the Wari ruins, showcasing their advanced urban planning, architecture, and art. These ruins are located just 22 kilometers from Ayacucho and offer a glimpse into the sophisticated society that once controlled much of the Peruvian Andes.

The Spanish founded the city of Ayacucho on April 25, 1540, under the name 'San Juan de la Frontera de Huamanga.' The city's strategic location made it an important military and administrative center during the Spanish colonial period. The architecture from this era, including the 33 colonial churches and the grand Plaza de Armas, reflects the Spanish influence that still pervades the city.

On December 9, 1824, the Battle of Ayacucho was fought on the Pampa de la Quinua, a plain near the city. This decisive battle was a turning point in the South American wars of independence, leading to the liberation of Peru from Spanish rule. The victory of the independence forces under General Antonio José de Sucre ensured the future of independent Latin American republics and is commemorated by the Obelisk of La Quinua.

In the late 20th century, Ayacucho became a focal point of the Shining Path insurgency, a Maoist guerrilla movement. The conflict began in the early 1980s and resulted in widespread violence and human rights abuses. The period left a deep impact on the region, and today, Ayacucho is a place of remembrance and reconciliation, with several museums and memorials dedicated to the victims of the conflict.

Ayacucho is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its traditional crafts and vibrant festivals. The city is famous for its retablos, which are intricate, hand-crafted wooden boxes depicting religious or historical scenes. Ayacucho's Semana Santa (Holy Week) is one of the most spectacular in Peru, featuring elaborate religious processions, fireworks, and traditional music and dance. This blend of indigenous and colonial traditions makes Ayacucho a culturally unique and fascinating destination.

The city of Ayacucho boasts a remarkable collection of colonial architecture, earning it the nickname 'City of Churches.' The Cathedral Basilica of St. Mary, built in the 17th century, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, featuring intricate stonework and a richly decorated interior. Other notable churches include Templo de Santo Domingo and Templo de la Compañía de Jesús, each with its unique architectural and historical significance.

Ayacucho is located in the Peruvian Andes. The nearest airport is Coronel FAP Alfredo Mendívil Duarte Airport (AYP), which has regular flights from Lima. The flight from Lima to Ayacucho takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can reach Ayacucho by bus from Lima, which takes approximately 8-10 hours. Buses are available from various companies, offering differing levels of comfort.

Ayacucho is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, you can use local taxis, which are affordable and readily available. Moto-taxis are another popular mode of transport for short trips within the city. Public buses are also available but may be less frequent and harder to navigate for tourists. Renting a car is an option but be prepared for mountainous terrain and narrow roads.

The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Ayacucho. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand if you're planning to travel to rural areas.

Ayacucho is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets and festivals. Some neighborhoods, such as the outskirts of the city, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always use registered taxis and avoid flagging down random vehicles.

In case of an emergency, dial 105 for police assistance and 116 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Ayacucho is Hospital Regional de Ayacucho. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos in churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A polite 'Buenos días' (Good morning) or 'Buenas tardes' (Good afternoon) is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ayacucho like a local, visit the local markets such as Mercado Central where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Peruvian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Semana Santa celebrations, which are among the most elaborate in Peru. For a unique experience, hike to the Wari ruins or visit the nearby town of Quinua, known for its traditional pottery.