Cathedral of Cusco

Located in the heart of the historic city, the Cathedral of Cusco is more than just a place of worship. It is a symbol of cultural fusion, an architectural masterpiece, and one of the most important landmarks in all of Peru. Whether you are passionate about history, art, religion, or architecture, the cathedral will captivate you with its complexity and historical significance.

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know before visiting the Cathedral of Cusco. Learn about its history, symbolism, must-see artworks, visiting hours, ticket prices, and the spiritual significance it holds for locals and travelers alike.

What Is the Cathedral of Cusco?

The Cathedral of Cusco, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, is the main church of the city. It was constructed between 1559 and 1654, over the foundations of the Inca palace of Viracocha. This majestic cathedral not only serves as a religious center but also houses an extraordinary collection of colonial art and Andean religious fusion.

It is located in the Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s main square, and is flanked by two smaller churches, El Triunfo and La Sagrada Familia, forming a unified religious complex.

Why Is the Cathedral of Cusco So Important?

The cathedral is not only a religious building but also a reflection of Peru’s colonial history and cultural transformation. It represents:

• The dominance of Spanish conquest over Inca rule

• The fusion of European Catholicism with Andean religious beliefs

• One of the finest examples of colonial baroque architecture in the Andes

• A repository of over 400 colonial paintings, many from the Cusco School of Art

It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding cultural value.

History of the Cathedral of Cusco

After the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, the Spanish authorities needed a powerful symbol to represent their control over the region. They chose to build the cathedral on top of Kiswarkancha, the palace of Inca Viracocha, using stones taken from Sacsayhuaman, the nearby Inca fortress.

Construction began in 1559 and lasted almost 100 years. Indigenous laborers and artisans were used extensively. While the design followed Spanish Renaissance and Baroque styles, the execution reflected local influences, creating a unique hybrid style.

Architecture and Design

The Cathedral of Cusco is primarily Baroque with Gothic and Renaissance elements. It was built using massive blocks of andesite stone.

Key Architectural Features:

• Three naves: The central nave and two lateral ones represent the Catholic Holy Trinity.

• Lateral chapels: Each dedicated to different saints, adorned with gold and silver.

• Vaulted ceilings and semi-circular arches are typical of Spanish architecture.

• A spectacular main altar made of solid silver.

Despite its grandeur, the cathedral retains a somber, deeply spiritual atmosphere that invites reflection and reverence.

What to See Inside the Cathedral of Cusco

1. The Main Altar

Located in the central nave, the main altar is made of silver and cedar wood, richly decorated and illuminated. It serves as the focal point of major religious ceremonies, including Corpus Christi and Holy Week celebrations.

2. The Sacristy and Choir

Do not miss the carved wooden choir stalls, considered among the finest in South America. The sacristy features portraits of Cusco’s bishops and archbishops, as well as religious relics.

3. La Capilla del Triunfo (The Chapel of Triumph)

This was the first Christian church built in Cusco in 1538. It is located to the left of the main cathedral and honors the Spanish victory over the Incas. Ironically, it is built with Inca stones and houses the famous statue of El Señor de los Temblores (The Lord of Earthquakes), the city’s patron saint.

4. La Sagrada Familia (The Holy Family Chapel)

Located to the right, this smaller chapel contains valuable religious paintings and sculptures. It often hosts quiet prayers and is less crowded than the main cathedral.

5. The Cusco School Paintings

The cathedral is home to some of the most famous works from the Cusco School of Art, a colonial-era art movement that combined European religious themes with Indigenous symbols.

Most notable is the Last Supper by Marcos Zapata, which features a traditional Andean feast including roasted guinea pig (cuy) and chicha, a fermented corn drink.

Religious Significance: The Lord of Earthquakes

Perhaps the most revered religious icon in Cusco is the Señor de los Temblores, or Lord of the Earthquakes. The statue is believed to have stopped a deadly earthquake in 1650 when it was carried in a procession through the streets.

To this day, every Holy Monday, thousands of people participate in a massive procession to honor this figure. He is kept inside the Chapel of Triumph but is the spiritual heart of the entire cathedral.

When to Visit the Cathedral of Cusco

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Sunday: Closed to tourists (reserved for mass)

You may attend mass for free, but entry for sightseeing requires a ticket.

Best Time to Visit:

• Mornings: For fewer crowds and better lighting

• Afternoons: Ideal for relaxed visits after exploring the city

Avoid Sundays unless you plan to attend religious services.

Tickets and Entrance Fees

The Cathedral of Cusco is not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, but entry tickets can be purchased at the main entrance or at official tourist counters.

Prices (2025):

• General admission: 40 soles

• Students: 20 soles (with valid ID)

• Children under 10: Free

Some guided tours include the cathedral as part of a city tour package.

How to Get There

The cathedral is located in the Plaza de Armas, at the heart of the historic center. Most hotels in the area are within walking distance.

If you are staying farther out, taxis are inexpensive and should cost no more than 10 soles from most districts. Be sure to ask for “Catedral del Cusco” and confirm the price before boarding.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress respectfully: Avoid shorts or tank tops when visiting churches.

• No photography with flash: Some areas prohibit photos entirely.

• Take a guide: Many symbolic details are hard to understand without context.

• Bring cash: For tickets, tips, or souvenirs.

• Be quiet: This is still an active place of worship.

Events and Festivals Held at the Cathedral

Holy Week (Semana Santa)

Celebrated with massive processions, floral decorations, and traditional food.

Corpus Christi

Each June, 15 saints and virgins are paraded from various churches to the cathedral, forming one of the most impressive religious displays in Peru.

Christmas and New Year

Seasonal decorations and midnight masses draw crowds of both locals and tourists.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Cathedral of Cusco, consider exploring these nearby attractions:

• Plaza de Armas: The heart of the city, surrounded by restaurants and shops

• Museo Inka: A museum featuring pre-Columbian artifacts just steps away

• Qorikancha: The Temple of the Sun, a short walk from the cathedral

• San Blas Neighborhood: A charming artisan district up the hill

Is the Cathedral of Cusco Worth Visiting?

Yes—without a doubt. The Cathedral of Cusco is a must-see for any traveler interested in Peruvian history, religion, or architecture. It offers a powerful glimpse into how two worlds—the Inca and the Spanish—collided and blended into something entirely new.

Every stone, painting, and chapel tells a story. From the breathtaking Last Supper painting with Andean food to the solemn Señor de los Temblores, you will come away with a deeper understanding of Peru’s spiritual and colonial past.

Visiting the Cathedral of Cusco in 2025

Visiting the Cathedral of Cusco is not just about admiring beautiful architecture. It is an opportunity to witness centuries of cultural transformation, spiritual devotion, and artistic brilliance.

Make sure to give yourself enough time to explore its chapels, altars, and artworks. Consider hiring a guide or joining a small tour for greater insight. And most importantly, allow yourself a few moments of stillness to feel the deep spiritual presence that continues to live within its walls.

Tours After Visiting The Cathedral of Cusco