The cathedral contains a large bell known as Maria Angola, cast in 1659, which can be heard from up to 40 kilometers away.
The Last Supper painting by Marcos Zapata depicts Jesus and the disciples with a roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy, replacing the lamb.
The cathedral complex actually encompasses three distinct churches: the main Cathedral, the church of El Triunfo, and the church of the Sagrada Familia.
Many of the stones used in the cathedral's foundation were looted from the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, reflecting a deliberate colonial architectural strategy of building over indigenous sites.
The cathedral houses the 'Lord of the Earthquakes' (Señor de los Temblores), a dark-skinned crucifix credited by locals with saving the city during the 1650 earthquake.
Cusco Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, is the primary religious site in Cusco, Peru. Construction occurred over nearly a century, beginning in 1560 and concluding in 1654, on the site of the former Inca palace of Wiracocha. The structure is built using stone blocks salvaged from the nearby Sacsayhuamán fortress. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cusco and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral contains over 400 colonial paintings, including works from the Cusco School of painting. A notable highlight is the 1753 painting of the Last Supper, which features a local guinea pig (cuy) on the platter. The interior displays elaborate silver altars and gold-leaf carvings. It houses the remains of several prominent historical figures, including the historian Garcilaso de la Vega.
From the center of the Plaza de Armas, providing a full view of the symmetrical facade and the two flanking chapel towers.
Rent the audio guide available at the entrance to understand the historical context of the extensive art collection.
Focus your visit on the side chapels, which contain the most ornate colonial silverwork and gold-leaf carvings.
Ensure your camera flash is disabled, as photography of the paintings is strictly regulated to prevent light damage.
Do not attempt to enter through the main ceremonial doors, as these are typically reserved for special liturgical processions; use the tourist entrance on the side.
The cathedral may close partially or entirely to tourists during liturgical services, weddings, or religious holidays.
Modest clothing is required; shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is expected throughout the interior.
