At an altitude of 3000 metres, Cusco is the most captivating
town in the Peruvian Andes. Capital of the Inca Empire, the town was
later built upon and expanded by the Spanish. The blend of such radically
different architectural design has resulted in a unique cityscape making
Cusco a real ‘must see’ destination. You could easily spend
a week here, every street and every square has its own charm and its
own piece of history just waiting to be discovered. Many of the winding
cobbled lanes are still flanked by their original Inca high stone walls.
The walls were created with incredible precision by cutting large blocks
of stone into various sizes and shapes, all of which would then link
in perfectly with each other requiring no adhesive to bond them together.
Marvel at the many ornate and opulent churches, or hunt out a bargain
at one of the local markets. Inca ruins are scattered all over the town
and religious and ceremonial sites are also easy to find on the outskirts.
Sacsayhuaman is the setting every June for the colourful celebrations
of Inti Raymi.
Properties
Hotel Monasterio
Cusco’s finest hotel, the Monasterio is located in the
heart of the city. Transformed from a 16th Century monastery, the 56 roomed hotel
is a wonderful example of how to blend traditional architecture with modern design.
Synonymous with the Inca, the culture and heritage of both countries remains incredibly strong. Sail across Lake Titicaca or walk amongst ancient ruins in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Llamas are your constant land companion whilst high up condors circle above you.
