Cuzco, Peru - The Capital of the Ancient Inca Empire

Cuzco, Peru is the cultural heart of the Peruvian Andes. It is situated at about 10,800 feet above sea level, and is surrounded by dramatic mountains and valleys. Cuzco has a population of 300,000 inhabitants - most of them indigenous - and makes the perfect base for exploring the grandeur of the Andes, a wealth of famous Inca ruins and the magical “Lost City” of Machu Picchu.

Cuzco was founded around 1100 AD. According one of the Inca creation myths, the Sun sent his son, Manco Capac, and the Moon sent her daughter, Mama Occlo, to spread culture through the barbaric lands. They emerged from the waters of Lake Titicaca and began their journey in search of the place where they would found their kingdom. When they reached the site of present-day Cuzco, Manco plunged his golden staff into the ground in order to test its suitability and it sank deep into the fertile soil. This was the sign they were looking for. They named this place Cuzco, meaning "the navel of the world'.

After the conquest, the Spanish built their colonial churches and houses on top of the Inca foundations and this fascinating mix of architectural styles is still much in evidence. The city, the former capital of the Inca Empire has a fascinating range of sites to visit: the convents, the churches, the museums, the Temple of the Sun and the Cathedral, to name but a few. Near Cuzco are more interesting sites easily visited, such as Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puca Pucara, Tambo Machay.

Cuzco is a World Heritage City. It's fun to go exploring the narrow cobbled colonial alleyways, and almost every street has remains of Inca Walls, arches and doorways. Within a few blocks of the Central Plaza, Cuzco remains very much a city of indigenous people and the markets are filled with the bright colours of mantas (blankets) that either carry beautiful babies or a variety of goods.

Everyone who visits Peru inevitably comes to Cuzco, one of the most fascinating cities in the world. As such, it is well equipped to deal with a wide variety of tourists, from the long term backpacker to the more discerning traveler looking for unique high class experiences. Visitors can enjoy eating a high quality meal on a balcony overlooking the picturesque Plaza de Armas or they can eat with the locals on the streets… the choice is theirs, which is what makes Cuzco so special.

With your Spanish skills learned at the Spanish School you will be confident to go out, explore and discover the magic of Cuzco!

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