THE CATHEDRAL OF CUSCO AND ITS HISTORY

The Cathedral of Cusco is one of the most emblematic monuments of the imperial city and one of the most visited places by tourists who come to the region. This majestic building is a sample of the colonial art that developed in Peru in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. In this article you will learn about the history and importance of the Cathedral of Cusco, as well as some recommendations to visit it.

History of the Cathedral of Cusco

The construction of the Cathedral of Cusco began in 1559, on the land previously occupied by the palace of the Inca Wiracocha and the temple of Suntur Wasi. The construction was in charge of the Spanish architects Juan Miguel de Veramendi and Juan de Montenegro, and lasted until 1654. During this time, the Cathedral underwent several remodeling and enlargements, such as the construction of the Sagrario chapel and the clock tower.

The Cathedral of Cusco is one of the best examples of colonial art in Latin America. Its architectural style is predominantly Renaissance, although it also presents Baroque and Plateresque influences. The main façade, in Renaissance style, is made of carved stone and presents a simple and elegant decoration. The interior of the Cathedral is equally impressive, with beautiful gilded wood carved altarpieces and a wealth of religious artwork.

Importance of the Cathedral of Cusco

The Cathedral of Cusco is one of the main religious centers of the region and is considered an important cultural heritage of Peru. It is a monument of great historical and architectural importance, as it is the result of the mixture of Andean and European culture. In addition, it houses a large number of religious works of art, including canvases, sculptures and silver objects.

Among the most outstanding works of art in the Cathedral of Cusco are the painting of the Last Supper, painted by Marcos Zapata in the 18th century, the Christ of the Good Death, an impressive sculpture carved in wood by the Cusco artist Juan Tomás Tuyro Túpac, and the Christ of the Column, a sculpture carved in wood by the Spanish artist Diego Quispe Tito.

Visitar la Catedral de Cusco

The Cathedral of Cusco is one of the most visited places by tourists who come to the city. If you plan to visit it, we recommend that you do it in the morning, as it is the time when there are fewer people and the atmosphere is quieter. The entrance to the Cathedral costs 25 soles for foreign tourists and 10 soles for Peruvians. It is undoubtedly a must-see place in our visit to the city of Cusco.