Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, seeing the world is something we all dream about. Most of us work hard and save our money to take our overseas holidays. Choosing a holiday destination can sometimes be tricky with so much out there to choose from. Do you enjoy ancient cultures and old cities; you may be thinking of Europe which we all know is full of ancient cities to explore. However, for something completely different why not consider South America. The continent has its share of history and fascinating ancient civilizations. The high Andean country of Peru should be high on your list of must see with not only the Inca civilization waiting for you. But what you should not miss in Peru is to travel to Cusco.
Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire where the kings ruled with a great power that extended into many parts of South America. As many of you would know the mighty Incas were conquered by the Spanish in the fifteenth century. When the Spanish arrived into Cusco and discovered the wonderful Inca temples they quickly proceeded to dismantle and use the stones for their churches. Most of the gold was shipped to Spain but the Spanish have left for us to see today many beautiful old churches in Cusco.
CATHEDRAL
It is very unusual to find two churches on the main square in any city in Peru, but Cusco features two of the most spectacular churches that you will see in all of South America. The first and the grandest is the Cathedral. You will visit the Cathedral on any city tour of this ancient city. The interior of the churches features many wonderful paintings from the Cusco School. Famously featuring Jesus and the last supper, the paint was painted by one of the many local people who worked at the school run by the Spanish. On closer inspection of the painting you will notice the what Jesus and his twelve disciples are eating is roasted guinea pig.
COMPAÑIA
The church also features a beautiful gold ornate alter and some impressive paintings of past saints and important Spanish and religious leaders. Most days’ services are held and you are allowed to enter and stay for the service. Remember to be respectful of the people attending the service.
The other church that features on the main square in Cusco is a Jesuit church that was constructed around the same time as the Cathedral. This church is also worth a visit with a lovely interior and many wonderful artworks.
SAN BLAS
Cusco features many other Spanish churches all worth a visit. In the San Blas part of Cusco take the time to visit the small church located on the plaza. The church has one of the grandest alters in all of Cusco. Hand carved from wood the craftsmanship is truly incredible.
To the south of Cusco, you will find the town of Andahuaylillas, here on the plaza is a wonderful little church that is definitely worth the trip. The paintings alone are excellent and be sure to take special note of the ceiling.
ANDAHUAYLILLAS
Why visit Cusco city you may ask, there are not only for the old churches in Cusco to enjoy, the city is a testament to the work of both the Spanish and the Inca. Beautiful Spanish colonial houses with terra cotta roofs feature, giving you the feeling that you are in an old European town. Wander the old cobble stoned streets and explore the many markets and see the colorful craft on offer. Cusco has some of the best restaurants in Peru with the variety of food that will both surprise and delight you. If you love to party than Cusco is the city for you, with many great bars and night clubs to dance the night away.
Visit the websites of the many Cusco Peru Travel agents and see the fabulous tours they have on offer. Stay at one of the luxury hotels that feature in the city, some even in old convents for example the Belmond Monestario hotel which features its own small and very beautiful church.
Travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas where in the town of Pisac every Sunday you can attend a wonderful service in the local church with local people before shopping at the market for all your souvenirs.
If you love old churches that you simply must visit Cusco in the Andes mountain range in Peru, the town is full of ancient history for you to discover. Don’t forget to experience the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, which is considered to be the best example of Inca architecture that survived the Spanish invaders. Voted one of the 7 Wonders of the World the Inca citadel is not something you should miss on your tour to the Andean Country. Do not wait any longer book your holiday to Peru today.
