The square was known as Huacaypata or 'Warrior's Square' during the Inca Empire and served as the site for the coronation of Inca rulers.
The base of the buildings surrounding the plaza consists of original Inca masonry, while the colonial Spanish architecture occupies the upper levels.
The central bronze statue on the fountain is often erroneously identified as Atahualpa or Pachacuti, though it is technically a generic representation of an Inca monarch.
Cusco Cathedral, located on the plaza, holds one of the most famous versions of 'The Last Supper' in the world, featuring a local cuy (guinea pig) on the dinner plate.
During the Inca era, the plaza was significantly larger and served as a ceremonial center for religious rites and military parades.
Plaza de Armas serves as the historic, social, and political heart of Cusco, Peru, sitting atop the site of the former Inca capital city of Huacaypata. The plaza is anchored by the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, both constructed using stones salvaged from ancient Inca palaces. It features a central fountain topped with a statue of an Inca leader and manicured gardens that provide a common meeting ground for locals and international travelers. The surrounding colonial-era arcades house numerous galleries, boutiques, and restaurants built onto original stone foundations. This public square remains the primary site for traditional festivals, including the annual Inti Raymi celebrations. The perimeter remains accessible 24 hours a day, serving as the city's central navigation hub.
The elevated stone steps in front of the Cusco Cathedral, which offer the most symmetrical wide-angle view of the square and mountains.
Visit the second-floor balconies of the surrounding cafes for an elevated, panoramic view of the plaza activities.
Be aware of street vendors and shoe shiners who may approach tourists persistently in the central garden area.
Keep a light jacket or layers nearby, as temperatures drop significantly as soon as the sun dips below the surrounding Andean peaks.
Dining at the restaurants directly facing the plaza, as they often feature higher prices and lower quality compared to side-street establishments.
Respect religious services in progress at the adjacent churches by maintaining a quiet volume and avoiding photography during ceremonies.
