Cusco
History
Cusco, also spelled Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru, near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. It is the capital of the Cusco Region and of the Cusco Province. The city has a rich history, being the historic capital of the Inca Empire from the 13th until the 16th-century Spanish conquest.
In 1983, Cusco was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO with the title "City of Cuzco". The city has become a major tourist destination, hosting nearly 2 million visitors a year. The indigenous name of this city is Qusqu. Although the name was used in Quechua, its origin has been found in the Aymara language. The word is derived from the phrase qusqu wanka ('Rock of the owl'), related to the city's foundation myth of the Ayar Siblings.
Geography and Climate
Cusco is located at an elevation of around 3,400 m (11,200 ft). The location of the city gives it a unique blend of highland and lowland characteristics. It is these features that have greatly influenced the city's architecture, culture, and lifestyle over centuries. The climate of Cusco is generally dry and temperate. Cusco has two distinct seasons: a wet season from November to March, and a dry season from April to October.
Architecture
Cusco's architecture is a mix of Inca and Spanish influences, with many buildings constructed on top of Inca foundations. The city's Inca walls, built of large, tightly-interlocked blocks of stone, are among its most impressive Incan constructions. In addition to the walls, the Inca also built a complex system of roads and bridges, which are still in use today.
Culture
Cusco is a cultural hub of Peru, with its mix of Inca and Spanish cultures. The city is known for its unique blend of music, dance, and art, which reflect its rich history and diverse population. Cusco's festivals, such as the Inti Raymi, are some of the most vibrant in the country, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Economy
The economy of Cusco is based on agriculture, mining, and tourism. The city's main agricultural products include maize, barley, quinoa, tea, and coffee. Cusco's mines produce gold, silver, and copper. Tourism is a major industry in Cusco, with the city's rich history and cultural heritage attracting visitors from around the world.
Education
Cusco is home to several universities and colleges, including the Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in Peru. The city also has a number of schools and libraries, making it an important educational center in the region.