Bolivia’s most important archaeological site, Tiwanaku, lies just a couple hours away from La Paz. Located in the modern town of Tiahuanaco, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the capital of a Pre-Columbian empire from about 300 to 1000. The original name of the city has been lost because the inhabitants had no written language. The ruins are still being excavated.
On the hills just above the city of Cusco are the Inca ruins of Saqsayhuamán (pronounced by some tourists as “sexy woman”).
A prominent site just above the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco is Cristo Blanco, built on a mountain called Pukamuqu. It’s a large statue of Christ built by a group of Christian Palestinian refugees who came to Cusco in 1945. They built it as a gift of thanks to Cusco when they returned to their homeland.
A short walk uphill from Plaza de Armas in Cusco is a much smaller plaza, Plazoleta Nazarenas. There are a few historic buildings around the square that have been refurbished for modern uses.
A pleasant area of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco worth visiting is San Blas. It’s a pleasant walk uphill from Plaza de Armas.
Cusco is not limited to Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the churches. The rest of the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city is well worth discovering. You’ll find many interesting places along the way.
The UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Cusco has a wealth of historic churches in the city center. Many people visit the churches at Plaza de Armas and don’t bother with the others, but it’s worth wandering around the city to see them.
The focal point of the historic center of the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Cusco is Plaza de Armas. It’s one of the most beautiful plazas I’ve ever visited and is full of action at all times.
If you like 17th and 18th century churches, especially of the Baroque variety, Ouro Preto has quite a treat for you. The town is packed with churches. It seems like they are just around every corner.