Main Square of Cusco
By CityToursCusco
December 18, 2025
The Plaza de Armas is the historic, social, and cultural heart of the historic city of Cusco. Since pre-Hispanic times, it has been the most important ceremonial center in the region, a sacred place where rituals, celebrations, and significant political events took place. During the colonial period, the plaza was transformed, but it never lost its prominent role. Today, it remains the prime meeting point for locals and travelers, the first stop in the city, and one of the most stunning.
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Importance of the Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
Plaza de Armas – Cusco
- The significance of the Plaza de Armas goes beyond its architectural beauty. Since the Inca period, it has been the scene of the most important ceremonies and meetings.
- With the arrival of the Spanish, this space was transformed following the European urban model, although many of the Inca architectural foundations were preserved. Nevertheless, it remained the administrative and religious center of the city.
- In Inca times, when the Plaza de Armas achieved its prominent role, it was called “Haucaypata” and occupied a much larger space, covering the area of Plaza Regocijo (formerly Cusipata) and extending as far as the present-day Cusco Hotel and the streets of Espaderos and Mantas.
- Today, the plaza maintains its central role in Cusco life, being the main site for traditional festivities, cultural events, civic celebrations, and social demonstrations. It is also the starting point to explore the Historic Center of Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
| Main Characteristics of the Plaza de Armas | |
|---|---|
| Characteristic | Description |
| Location | Historic center of the city of Cusco |
| Original Name | Haucaypata, which in Quechua has varying meanings such as “place of the warrior” or “place of crying” |
| Period of Origin | Inca period, remodeled during the colonial period |
| Historical Importance | It was the main ceremonial space of the Tahuantinsuyo and later the center of colonial power |
| Architecture | Colonial buildings with Inca foundations |
| Main Attractions | Cusco Cathedral, Church of the Society of Jesus, colonial arcades |
| Current Function | Main site for civic and traditional events, as well as a meeting point for tourists, cultural, religious, and social gatherings |
| Featured Events | Inti Raymi, Corpus Christi, Cusco Festivals, Carnivals, and Christmas celebrations |
| Nearby Services and Attractions | Restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, museums, churches, small plazas, and historic streets |
What to See at the Plaza de Armas (Main Square)?
Cusco Cathedral – Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by many tourist attractions, each adding more beauty and value to your visit. Depending on the time of year, you may see it adorned with many commemorative decorations, such as for Christmas or the Cusco festivals.
- The Cusco Cathedral: The most important temple in Cusco and a symbol of colonial religious art. The Cusco Cathedral was built on Inca walls and foundations, also housing much colonial art: works from the Cusco School, altarpieces, and goldsmith pieces. Its imposing architecture dominates the plaza’s landscape, making it a must-visit along with its museum.
- Church of the Society of Jesus: Considered an impressive example of Andean Baroque, this church stands out for its stone façade and elegant interior. It is said that its construction was intended to rival the Cathedral. When you visit, you can access its towers for some of the best views of the city.
- Bars and Restaurants: Around the Plaza de Armas, you’ll find some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in the city, perfect for trying delicious Peruvian and Cusqueñan cuisine, as well as signature drinks that carry much tradition in their preparation. From many of these places, you can enjoy stunning views from the classic balconies that line the plaza.
- Benemérita Society of Artisans: An institution dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Cusco art. Inside, you can view artistic exhibitions of all kinds, as well as cultural activities reflecting the talents of local artisans.
- Natural History Museum: A lesser-known but very interesting place for those wanting to learn about the biodiversity of the Cusco region. The museum showcases collections related to the fauna, flora, and geography of the Andean territory, offering a complementary angle on Cusco’s natural wealth.
- Landscapes and Resting Spots: As you walk around the Plaza de Armas, you’ll catch glimpses of many stunning views of Cusco, including sights of Cristo Blanco, the San Cristóbal neighborhood, and surrounding mountains. Taking a break on the benches by green spaces is one of the best activities to do here. Additionally, at night, the lighting highlights the plaza’s architecture, creating a uniquely beautiful atmosphere.
💡 Other nearby tourist attractions to the Plaza de Armas
In your visit to the Plaza de Armas, you can also discover, by exploring the surrounding areas, impressive tourist sites such as: Plaza Regocijo, Santa Catalina Monastery, the Stone of the 12 Angles, Plaza Nazarenas, the Convent of La Merced, the Inka Museum, the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, and the Regional Historical Museum. Each one, full of surprises and beauty, will complement your experience in this historic place.
How to Visit the Plaza de Armas (Main Square)?
Tourists in the Plaza de Armas
- Visiting the Plaza de Armas is very easy, as it is located in the heart of the historic center of the city and is accessible on foot from most tourist accommodations.
- The main streets from which you can enter are: Procuradores, Cuesta del Almirante, Triunfo, Santa Catalina Angosta, Loreto, Mantas, Del Medio, Espaderos, and Plateros.
- The experience of visiting the plaza can vary depending on the time of day. In the morning, it has a calm atmosphere, ideal for photos and cultural walks.
- In the afternoon, the activity increases, and it becomes an ideal resting spot to observe local life or enjoy the sunset from one of the balconies. At night, the lighting enhances the architecture of the Plaza de Armas and creates a completely magical atmosphere.
- Visiting the Plaza de Armas can also be part of a guided tour, as the Cusco city tour includes the main attractions of the plaza, such as the Cathedral. The entire tour will be accompanied by a professional guide who will provide you with the necessary information to better understand the historical context of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Because the Plaza de Armas is the historic and cultural heart of the city. Visiting it allows you to understand part of the Inca heritage and how it transformed after the colonial era. It’s also the ideal starting point for any tour of the Historic Center.
This space was the main stage for ceremonies of the Tahuantinsuyo empire and later became the administrative and religious center during the colonial era. When you visit, you’ll see how Inca heritage and colonial architecture coexist in the same environment.
In Inca times, the Plaza de Armas was known as Haucaypata, and it was a much larger ceremonial space than today. Walking around the plaza, you’ll be stepping on one of the most sacred places in Inca culture.
Yes, because inside you’ll find religious art from the Cusco School, colonial altarpieces, and valuable historical pieces. It’s an essential visit to understand the cultural past of Cusco.
Yes, from the plaza you can enjoy stunning views, including sights of the Cristo Blanco and traditional neighborhoods like San Cristóbal. We recommend sitting for a few minutes to take in the surroundings and fully enjoy the experience.
In addition to visiting temples and museums, you can enjoy restaurants, cafes, and bars with balconies overlooking the plaza. It’s an excellent area to try local cuisine and take a break between tours.
Yes, events like Inti Raymi, Corpus Christi, the Fiestas del Cusco, Carnavales, New Year’s, and Christmas celebrations take place at the Plaza de Armas. If your visit coincides with these dates, you will experience a much richer cultural experience.
We also recommend visiting it at night. The lighting highlights the colonial architecture and creates a special atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful walk or enjoying dinner at nearby restaurants.
Very close to the Plaza de Armas, you’ll find the Stone of the 12 Angles, the Inka Museum, the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, Plaza Regocijo, and several historic convents. All can be explored within walking distance from the plaza.
Yes, all city tours include the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral. We recommend this option if you want to learn more about its history, as well as many additional tourist sites with a deeper explanation from a professional guide.