Cusco: What to See, Where to Stay, Where to Eat

For Travelers to Peru and Machu Picchu

Author: The Traveling Professor/Sunday, July 21, 2013/Categories: Peru & Machu Picchu

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The major sites in Cusco are:

Saqsayhuaman:  Pronounced almost like "sexy woman" this is an imposing megalithic structure only 2 km outside of town.  It's purpose is unknown.  Perhaps it was a military structure or fortress.  Maybe it was a temple.  Pope John Paul II said mass here in native Quechua to hundreds of thousands of Peruvians.

The Cathedral:  Built by the Spanish upon an Inca Palace, it is a lavish Spanish Cathedral in the heart of the city.  The controversial and famous "Last Supper" features a guinea pig as the central dish.

Q'Orikancha:  The most import of all imperial structures.   It was built as a rock-solid fortress started by Inca Pachacutec, it was partially demolished and re-constructed by the Spanish.

Central Market:  I have never seen a market in the world like this one.   Local foods, souvenirs, and just about anything can be found here.

Where to Stay:

Casa Andina chain has some outstanding hotels.  I like the Terra Andina for its comfort, quiet but good location, and their hospitality.

Where to Eat:

Have dinner at Astrid & Gaston's Chi Cha.  The Peruivan fusion is amongst the best in all Peru and the price is right.   The Monasterio for lunch is an indulgence in a formal, Spanish former monastery among beautiful architecture, flowers, and fountains.

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