Overview:

Cusco Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church built in the 16th century. Located in the main square of Cusco, Peru, the Cathedral is considered a major example of Spanish colonial architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited sites in the country. The cathedral was built onto the foundations of an Inca temple and is replete with ornate carvings and precious metals, as well as an impressive archway above the main entrance. Inside, there are many interesting pieces of art and craftsmanship, and the Cathedral is home to the revered statue of the Child Jesus of Cusco. The Cathedral is used as a place of worship and serves as a focal point for many of Cusco's religious festivals and celebrations. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

1. Baroque facade: The external facade of the Cusco Cathedral is a classic example of Baroque architecture. It showcases detailed stone carvings, decorative buttresses, curved pediments, and a twin-towered entrance. 2. Six massive naves: Inside, the Cusco Cathedral is divided into six massive naves that extend along its lengthy 67.1-meter length and reach up to a height of 22.7 meters. 3. Elegant altars: The main altar and several side altars feature stunning gilded artworks and ornate carvings in classic Baroque style. 4. Stained-glass windows: A number of delicate stained-glass windows adorn the walls of the cathedral and let light stream in from the outside. 5. Ancient Inca walls: The walls of the Cusco Cathedral were built using the stones from ancient Inca temples and palaces. 6. Indigenous artwork: Throughout its interior, the Cusco Cathedral is decorated with a variety of indigenous artwork, including wood carvings, paintings, and mosaics. 7. Musical displays: Visitors can often experience the sounds of brass instruments and choirs of singers during musical displays inside the cathedral. 8. Museum collections: The Cathedral also houses an extensive collection of religious relics from the 16th century that can be viewed in the onsite museum. 9. Vatican library: In the basement of the cathedral, visitors can explore the Vatican Library's collection of rare manuscripts, which date back to the 16th century. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

Cusco Cathedral is the main Catholic church located in the city of Cusco, Peru and is an example of colonial-era architecture. The original building was constructed in 1560 on the site of the Inca temple of Coricancha and has since undergone several reconstructions and expansions. The present day Cathedral was completed in 1654, making it one of the oldest churches in South America. The church was built on the site of an ancient Inca temple, and is part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Cusco. Its interior is highly ornate, displaying beautiful colonial-style altarpieces, paintings and sculptures. Its most noteworthy feature is the ornate façade, with its large clock and an impressive balcony decorated with Latin inscriptions. The Cathedral is also home to one of Peru's most prized relics, the Madonna of Mercy, as well as several valuable paintings, carvings and other works of art. It is used for religious services and ceremonies, and is open to visitors during the day. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers expansive views of the city from its bell towers. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Construction of Cusco Cathedral began in 1550 and lasted until 1653. 2. The exterior of the cathedral has neo-classical lines but was actually built on top of an Inca palace. 3. The seven-story bell tower of Cusco Cathedral stands 85 meters high. 4. The cathedrals design was inspired by the Inca Empire. 5. Many of the sculptures, paintings and tapestries that decorate the Cusco Cathedral were brought from Spain. 6. It is the largest church in South America and symbolizes the city of Cusco. 7. The crucifix of Cusco was created in 1563 and is the oldest in the continent. 8. Cusco Catedral houses the bodies of the conquistador Francisco Pizarro and his brother Hernando Pizarro. 9. The choir loft of the cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin of the Rosary. 10. During the Feast of Corpus Christi, a procession with more than 600 people re-enacts the Battle of Cusco between the Spanish and the Inca Empire. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era