Paul Bird
Reaching the sun gate and marvelling over Machu Picchu unveiled one of the most impressive landscapes that Paul has seen in his global travels.
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Sitting at over 3,000 metres, the once capital city of the Inca Empire is a web of elaborate pulpits and gold-leafed altars that contrast with colourful Quechua street vendors, lilting pan-pipe music and frequent parades and festivals.
Of particular interest is the temple of the sun Koricancha (courtyard of gold in Quechua), which was said to be the most sumptuous temple built by the Inca Empire as it was purely dedicated to Inti, the sun.
As with Machu Picchu, Cusco needs little introduction, but there are many places that are often missed as tourists rush through to Machu Picchu. Head up to San Blas, Cusco’s bohemian district, visiting the Inca Museum and continue further up to pass artisans in their workshops. Stay in a typical Cusquenan colonial house for an authentic experience with fantastic personal service.
Try and coincide your visit to Cusco with the Inti Raymi festival which takes place over the summer solstice in June, re-enacted amongst the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Take time to visit Cusco’s Textile Museum, which helps continue Peru’s heritage of the ancient technique of back strap weaving. The museum works closely with villages in the Sacred Valley, to which we can organise local artisan visits.
Similarly, the project Polleras de Agustina has taken the world by storm. What started out as an effort to preserve the traditional embroidery techniques of Cusco has become a worldwide style phenomenon.
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