The Incas believed Cusco (Cuzco), the core of the Inca Empire, which stretched from Colombia to Chile. In 1534 came the Spaniards Cusco, transforming the Inca palaces and temples of colonial homes and churches. Eventually the town became a symbol of colonialism, not only architecturally but culturally.1The 1650 earthquake reduced the city and its surroundings in ruins, but under the leadership of Bishop Molinedo the city was reconstructed with more emphasis on wood carvings, paintings, and the modern architecture of the period. Today these ancient sites surround this beautiful city Cusco.1Cusco was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, and it is a major tourist destination in southern America.Geography and ClimateLocated at 11 100 feet, Cusco is half dry, cold climate, with maximum temperatures of 67.3 F and a minimum of 39.6F. The rainy season is from November to late March, and June-July are the coldest months, with occasional snow falls, this is the time of year when hiking on the Inca Trail is the most popular. We visited in June, and while the day temperature was a comfortable 45-50F, were the nights bitterly cold.Why visit Cusco? The province of Cusco offers visitors the opportunity to experience the culture of the Inca. The town retains much of the Inca architecture which has been incorporated into modern structures. The huge stones used by the Incas fit together so well that even a razor blade can not be inserted between them.Cusco has a rich history and traditions, and there are many impressive churches, monasteries, museums, archeological sites, and blocks not to be missed. The cathedral in Cusco is a Renaissance building whose interior is mostly of cedar and alder wood carvings, here you will find an impressive run and the pulpit stand. Another fine example of colonial architecture is the Templo de la Compania de Jesus, which was originally built in 1571 and renovated in 1688th The design and the facade is an excellent example of the Andean Baroque. Important works of art are exhibited in this church. Quaint neighborhoods abound, and the San Blas is one of the most beautiful of Cusco. The area is characterized by narrow, steep streets and beautiful colonial house. The area is also known as "craftsmen's neighborhood" church of San Blas, which was built in 1560 is a masterpiece of wood carved Baroque pulpit, built by an indigenous artist.For. More information is available at: www.peru.info.comBeyond Cusco If time permits, visitors should visit the other important Inca sites located just one hour from Cusco with substantial interest is Sacsayhuaman, which contains the largest stones mined in the world, how these huge stones were carved and moved , remains a mystery. Other places are the nearby Inca ruins Qenko, Pucapucara and Tambomachay and that requires a day trip, is the sacred valley, which should include a visit to the traditional Indian market at Pisac, the beautiful village of Ollantaytambo and the small village Chinchero located high in the mountains for more information and ideas, visit: .. http://www.peru.info/en/where-to-go-7- 2Machu Picchu Seems that the reason most tourists visit Cuzco Machu Picchu, a perfectly preserved Inca city located on top of a mountain. The old town offers breathtaking views of mountains soaring over valleys and rivers, which glitters in the Andean sun. The Inca Trail is part of the Inca highway syst1em, and one of the most important South American trails, many visitors come to hike the Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu Alternatively, visitors can take the easy way to Machu Picchu, from the town of Aguas. . Calientes, located at the foot of Machu Picchu The bus ride up a switchback road from the village, and you will put you on the archaeological site for 30 minutes Cusco is easily accessible by air from Lima, the capital of Peru. flights are about 1.5 hours in length. ConclusionObviously there is more to Cusco than the attractions listed here. The city has much to offer, such as colorful festivals, fascinating markets, history, culture and nature so captivating that one must see when visiting Cusco Peru.For further photographs taken on our trip to Peru, please visit my photo album at: http:/ / travel.webshots.com/album/571196183RfFRTT----------------1 Reference from: http://worldfacts.us/Peru-Cusco.htm
