Cusco’s Most Beautiful Churches and Plazas You Shouldn’t Miss
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Cusco isn’t just a gateway to Machu Picchu — it’s a city steeped in history, art, and culture. One of my favorite ways to soak it all in was exploring its beautiful churches and vibrant plazas. Between visiting historic landmarks and wandering the streets, I spent plenty of time sitting in plazas, sipping a coffee, and people-watching — one of my favorite simple joys while traveling.
If you want to experience Cusco like a local, understanding its plazas and churches is a must. They offer a window into the city’s colonial past, its Incan foundations, and the lively culture that thrives in its public spaces today.
Why Visit Cusco’s Churches and Plazas?
Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire, and after the Spanish conquest, colonial architecture transformed the city. Churches were often built on top of Incan foundations, blending old and new in a way that tells the story of Cusco’s complex history.
Plazas, on the other hand, are the heart of city life. They’re where locals gather, festivals take place, and travelers can sit for hours watching the world go by — my personal favorite way to unwind after a morning of adventuring.
Must-See Churches in Cusco
Cusco Cathedral (Plaza de Armas)
Located in the main square, this cathedral is an architectural masterpiece. Its ornate altars, colonial artwork, and impressive facade make it one of the city’s most visited churches.
La Compañía de Jesús Church
A stunning example of Jesuit baroque architecture, this church is filled with intricate wood carvings, gilded altars, and a sense of grandeur that transports you back in time.
San Blas Church
Tucked into the artistic San Blas neighborhood, this smaller church features a beautifully carved wooden altar and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop if you want a quieter, reflective experience.
Qorikancha / Temple of the Sun
Originally an Incan temple, it was converted into the Santo Domingo Convent after the Spanish conquest. The juxtaposition of Incan stone walls with colonial architecture is breathtaking and tells an important story of Cusco’s layered history.
Beautiful Plazas to Explore
Plaza de Armas
Cusco’s main square is lively and picturesque. Surrounded by colonial buildings, restaurants, and shops, it’s a great place to grab a coffee, watch locals and tourists mingle, or admire the city’s architecture.
Plaza San Francisco
Adjacent to the historic San Francisco Church, this smaller plaza is less crowded and has a charming, local feel. It’s a nice spot to pause after walking through the city streets.
Plaza San Blas
Nestled in the artsy San Blas neighborhood, this plaza is perfect for enjoying a slower pace. I loved sitting here and people-watching, taking in the colorful buildings, street performers, and the daily rhythm of local life.
Tips for Visiting Churches and Plazas
- Check opening hours: Some churches close early or have restricted access during services.
- Respect the space: Take care when photographing inside religious sites.
- Visit early or late: Plazas can get crowded in the middle of the day, so early morning or late afternoon is ideal.
- Bring a snack or coffee: Sit and people-watch — it’s one of the best ways to feel the city’s energy.
A Simple Walking Route
If you’re short on time, here’s a route to hit the highlights:
- Start at Plaza de Armas, visit Cusco Cathedral.
- Walk to La Compañía de Jesús Church.
- Head up to San Blas neighborhood to see the San Blas Church and Plaza San Blas.
- End at Qorikancha / Temple of the Sun, taking your time to admire the Incan foundations.
Along the way, stop for a coffee or snack at a plaza bench to soak up the local life.
Cusco’s churches and plazas are more than just tourist stops — they’re places where history, culture, and everyday life converge. Exploring these spaces offers insight into the city’s colonial past, Incan heritage, and vibrant modern life.
For me, the simple act of sitting in a plaza, watching locals go about their day, and taking in the architecture was just as memorable as visiting any ruin or museum. If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, make sure you carve out time for these beautiful, lively, and inspiring corners of the city.