The history of Cusco Peru

Article submitted by: Academia Latinoamericana de Español - Peru. The Academia occupies a large building on one of Cusco's main avenues, Avenida El Sol, directly in front of the most important site from pre-Colombian Cusco, the Korikancha (Temple of the Sun). The building houses two full floors with about 15 classrooms, a video room, a full kitchen, an entertainment room and a sundeck. http://www.latinoschools.com

"According to the stories passed down through generations of Quechuas, the mythical monarch Manco Capac founded the city of Cusco at the beginning of the 13th century B.C. with the help of his three brothers and four sisters. Under Inca rule, the empire grew and developed: the systems of past cultures were improved; magnificent structures were built, such as roads and stone bridges; crop production increased, thanks to the construction of irrigration channels and aqueducts; and huge fortresses were built. But, just like in every great empire, the struggle for power and personal ambitions led to its downfall. When Francisco Pizarro began to colonize Peru, the Inca empire had already been weakened due to a disagreement between Atahualpa and his half-brother Huascar over who would succeed their father as leader.

Nevertheless, the great city of Cusco still conserves remnants of that ancient age of splendor. These have become obligatory stops on tourist itineraries, along with the city´s important buildings from the colonial period. Any journey through this beautiful city should begin in the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where you will find the venerable cathedral. Its construction was begun in 1556, but design changes and the earthquake of 1650 delayed its completion.

It was finally completed in 1654. The imposing temple was designed in the Renaissance style and laid out in the form of a Latin cross. Some of its most important chapels include the Señor de los Temblores, the Virgen de lo Remedios, and the Capilla de la Immaculada Concepción, also known as La Linda.

Jesuit priests began construction of La Compañía de Jesus, another one of Cusco's important religious structures, in 1576. It was also delayed by design changes and the earthquake of 1650, but it was finally completed in 1668. Its façade and interior are designed in the Baroque, style and the retables are made of cedar detailed with gold leaf. Every narrow lane of this city emanates history. This is why you can travel in any direction and discover fascinating spots where the past and the present converge, giving Cusco a unique, evocative character.

The culture's identity is represented and personified by its most notable warrior, government official, and statesman, the Great Inca Pachakuteq, founder of the Tawantinsuyo Empire. One of the tallest (113 feet) and most spectacular monuments in Latin America is the one erected in his honor, located in the Pachakuteq traffic circle. To experience one of the most beloved traditions of the Peruvian community, you must see the Inti Raymi, a celebration held every June 24 in honor of the sun god of the fortress, or "Fortaleza del Halcon" located in the northern zone of the city of Cusco about 836 feet above the Plaza de Armas or 12,000 feet above sea level. The city gathers around the fort on that day, and delegates from the four zones of the ancient Inca empire parade by in their traditional costumes to the rhythm of ancient music. Finally, the great Inca appears transported on a litter - which during the imperial era was made from gold and silver- accompanied by an entourage of dignitaries who follow at a respectful distance. While the pututos (indigenous instrument made from an animal's horn), bugles and Indian flutes are sounded, the Inca stands up and pays homage to Inti, the sun god, with outstretched arms, promising obedience, respect, and adoration. This tradition reflects the deep admiration that the people of Cusco have for the ancient culture of the Incas. In the minds of the newer generations, that a time period is synonymous with prosperity and unequaled greatness, and is considered by many as the Andean utopia. The city of Cusco sits perched amidst the clouds and the lush Andean greenery 11,000 feet above sea level, an everlasting legacy to Peru´s rich history.

Many international tourists are drawn to Cusco for its proximity to the famous Machu Picchu ruins and the Inca Trail. Due to the high elevation, it is cool at night and sunny but cool during the day year- round. However, this can be a great excuse to seek out the many markets selling the beautiful wool sweaters and textiles for which the country is renowned. Surrounded by the wealth of its Inca history and offering the comforts of an internationally known town, Cusco truly is an exciting place to live, learn, and enjoy."

If you did not find what you are looking for, try searching: