Cultura of Cusco

Cusco is and will always be a cultural capital. It was in the days of the Inca Empire as its center and it is nowadays as one of the most important cities of the region. But, besides, it is a compulsory touristic destination for those who love the man’s history.

It is not only an archaeological city. In other words, Cusco is not only ruins, but also its people and customs, history and traditions, that strange but enriching combination of the old Europe with the new continent.

What can you find in Cusco? Colors, kindness, joy and an endless variety of usages and customs, clothes and dances, like that of Chunchos, Qollas, Carnaval Cusqueno, la Danza de los Doctorcitos, la Danza de los Negritos, la Contradanza, la Saqra K’achampa, el Panadero, just to mention some of them.

The Cusco popular art is incomparable. The natural creativity of native people has been shown throughout the history of this city that was enriched with the Spaniards’ arrival who brought new ideas and techniques.

Cusco is famous for its textiles. Its skilled weavers astonish travelers when they weave their alpaca, llama or vicuna wool garments. The clay sculpture also stands out since it transmits the Andean view of the world and its vision of the west world. The unpredictable altarpieces and the particular religious images making are two good examples.

The syncretism occurred 500 years ago is palpable in Cusco. It is enough to pass by the streets. Hatum Rumiyoc and the Koricancha is the merged architecture of two towns diametrically opposed. Churches in Cusco corroborate this opinion.

It is the same with paintings. Within the style of the old painters from the Cusco School you can see Spain, but also the Ande. That is why the paintings are even appreciated overseas.
But do not forget that a promenade by its museums is the best history lesson that you can take to your country.

Regarding gastronomy, the Cusco cuisine is used to changes, it lives together with peace and modernity. Your travel to Cusco will not be complete if you do not taste the unmistakable flavoring of the Andes. The “adobo”, cuy (guinea pig), cordero (lamb)or chicharrones (cracklings) will impress your palate and you’ll remember the taste forever.

Folklore
Cusco is characterized by the richness and diversity of its traditions. It stands out the dances of Chunchos, Qollas, Carnaval Cusqueno, Danza de los Doctorcitos, Danza de los Negritos, Contradanza, Saqra K’achampa and el Panadero, among others.