Cusco Main Plaza

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Cusco Main Square: Your Essential Guide

The Main Square, known as Plaza de Armas, is the city’s central hub. Located at an altitude of 11,152 feet (3,399 meters), this historic square is surrounded by significant buildings and buzzing with activity. If you’re visiting Cusco, the Plaza de Armas is a spot you’ll definitely want to explore. This guide gives you the key details about this central landmark.

How to Get to Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is in the heart of Cusco, making it easily reachable from most parts of the city center. If you are staying in downtown, you can likely walk to the Plaza. Taxis are also readily available to take you to Plaza de Armas from anywhere. Just tell your driver “Plaza de Armas”.

What to Wear

Dress comfortably for visiting Plaza de Armas. Like anywhere in Cusco, layering is a smart choice as the weather can vary. Comfortable shoes are advisable as you might be walking around the square and surrounding streets. Depending on the time of day, sunglasses and a hat can be useful for sun protection, especially at Cusco’s high altitude.

Best Time to Visit Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is lively throughout the day, but different times offer different experiences. Mornings are often quieter and good for taking photos without large crowds. Midday and afternoons are busier, with more street vendors and activity. Evenings are popular as the square lights up, and it becomes a social gathering spot. Weekends typically see more local families and activity in the Plaza.

Top Things to Do in Plaza de Armas

Around Plaza de Armas, you’ll find several key attractions and activities:

Cusco Cathedral: Dominates one side of the Plaza. Explore this impressive cathedral, rich in art and history.
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús: Another grand church on the Plaza, known for its baroque architecture.
Walk Around the Square: Take time to stroll around, admire the colonial architecture, and watch daily life unfold.
Take Photos: The Plaza and its surrounding buildings offer many photo opportunities, especially with the mountains in the background.
Relax at a Cafe: Several cafes and restaurants around the Plaza offer views of the square – ideal for people-watching.
Observe Festivals and Events: Plaza de Armas is often the center for festivals, parades, and cultural events in city, especially Inti Raymi.

What to Bring When Visiting

Camera or Phone: To capture the beauty of the square and surrounding architecture. Photo opportunities are abundant, especially at different times of the day.
Small Amount of Cash (Peruvian Soles): Useful if you want to buy snacks from street vendors around the Plaza or for tips.
Sunscreen and Hat: Even on a cloudy day, the sun at Cusco’s altitude can be strong. Protection is advisable, especially if you plan to spend a longer time in the open square.
Water: Staying hydrated is always a good idea, especially when exploring at altitude.
A Guidebook or Information: While not essential, having some information about the history of the Plaza and surrounding buildings can enhance your visit.

Common Considerations for Visiting Plaza de Armas

There are no strict restrictions for visiting Plaza de Armas itself, as it’s a public space. However, be aware of:

Entrance fees for the Cathedral and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. Have some cash ready if you plan to enter these churches.
Pickpockets: Like any busy public square, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowds. Keep valuables secure.
Demonstrations or Events: Occasionally, protests or cultural events take place in the Plaza, which can affect accessibility or atmosphere.

Recommended Age for Visiting Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is suitable for visitors of all ages. Considerations for different age groups:

Families with young children: The open space of the Plaza is good for kids to walk around. However, keep a close eye on young children in busy areas.
Older adults: The Plaza is mostly flat and accessible. Benches are available for resting. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed, especially if you’re adjusting to the altitude.
Teenagers and adults: All age groups will likely find the Plaza engaging and enjoyable, whether for historical interest, photography, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

About Local People Around Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is a central meeting point for locals as well as tourists. You’ll see Cusqueños going about their day, meeting friends, or just passing through. Street vendors are common, selling everything from snacks to crafts. The Plaza is a place where local life and tourism intersect.

Culture and Traditions Seen at Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is rich in cultural and historical significance:

Colonial Architecture: The buildings around the Plaza showcase Spanish colonial architecture, built on Inca foundations, reflecting Cusco’s layered history.
Religious Significance: The Cathedral and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús represent the strong Catholic influence in Cusco, blended with indigenous Andean beliefs.
Public Gatherings: The Plaza remains a central public space, used for celebrations, protests, and everyday social interactions, continuing its historical role as a gathering place.

Final Tips for Enjoying Plaza de Armas

Visiting Plaza de Armas is essential to any trip. Take your time to explore, observe, and soak in the atmosphere. Consider visiting at different times of day to see how the square changes. For similar historical plazas in Peru, consider visiting the Plaza de Armas in Lima or Trujillo, each offering unique colonial architecture and histories, though at much lower altitudes. Enjoy the heart of Cusco in Plaza de Armas!