San Blas is located within the Historic Center of Cusco, this neighborhood is often referred to as the cultural and artistic district where you’ll find famous artisans, coffee shops, galleries, and more! Don’t miss the opportunity of visiting this emblematic place, get to know everything about it here.
As you may know, the city of Cusco gathers history and culture that you shouldn’t miss during your trip through Peru. The Historical Center of Cusco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 since this place has harmonically merged the Inca and Spanish culture, giving it a high historical value among all the different old towns within South America.
If you wish more information about the most exciting things to do in Cusco, we invite you to check these blogs we have for you:
Cusco is by far, everyone’s favorite destination while traveling through Peru and South America. Keep reading to find out more about the famous San Blas neighborhood!
During the Inca era, it was recognized as T’oqokachi, a significant part of the ancient city of Cusco, where many architects and artisans used to live. Due to the high location of this neighborhood, in the past it was considered to be one of the most visually striking places in the city since from this place you could have outstanding views of the Cusco valley, something that has been maintained until the actual date.
It is believed that this place is of great importance to the Inca elite since it was here where they found the remains of Pachacutec, an important Inca figure who ordered the construction of Machu Picchu. After the arrival of the Spaniards, the name was changed to San Blas in honor of a recognized bishop from the III century, who dedicated his life to heal persons and animals.
Currently, San Blas has remained as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Imperial City of Cusco. Apart from history, the San Blas neighbourhood is recognized for its cultural expression, since it is home to the most significant local artisans.
Here you’ll find some art galleries and artisan handicraft shops that you can’t leave behind if you’re looking for the best souvenir. San Blas is also known for its colonial architecture which comprehends cobbled and narrow streets throughout the whole neighborhood.
Plazoleta de San Blas. It is located at the end of Cuesta de San Blas, making it the perfect resting point after walking this steep street. In the beautiful square of San Blas you’ll find the Coca Museum, the Hilario Mendivil Museum Workshop, shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as the main tourist attraction within this neighborhood, the San Blas Temple.
The Temple of San Blas. This church is the main colonial structure found in this neighborhood, it was built in 1563 on top of a Incan Huaca dedicated to the Lightning God, Illapa. The temple was reconstructed in 1650 after it suffered great damage caused by an earthquake.
Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops. San Blas comprehends a great part of the gastronomic culture of Cusco. Here you’ll find cevicherias, bars, and famous restaurants that you simply can’t miss during your visit.
Galleries and Artisan Handicraft Shops. Explore the artistic side of this beautiful neighborhood, here you’ll find remarkable galleries from famous local artisans, as well as many artisan handicraft shops, where you’ll surely find the best souvenir.
San Blas Viewpoint. If you wish to experience the beautiful sunset and a panoramic view of the city of Cusco, we highly recommend visiting the San Blas viewpoint, located a few minutes away from Plazoleta de San Blas.
San Blas is easily accessible from Plaza de Armas since it is only a 15-20 minutes walk from this location. To reach this emblematic place you just have to walk from the main square in direction to Triunfo Street, passing by The Rock of the 12 Angles until finally walking up Cuesta de San Blas.
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Unquestionably, Cusco city comprehends the most exciting, historical, and cultural attractions within this region. Don’t miss the chance of visiting the San Blas neighborhood and many other significant places within the Historic Center of Cusco!
