From an Inca capital to a tourist hub
On the massive stone walls of Incan Coricancha temple towers a Catholic church, and in the city center sumptuous colonial buildings stand on top of Inca foundations. Each house and each stone in the historical center of Cusco tells the story of the Incas' ancient civilization and their repression by the Spanish conquerors. It takes just a short stroll for this city's rich history to cast its spell on you. Cusco is the starting point for tours to Machu Picchu and the holy valley of the Incas, which makes it a must on any tourist's Peruvian or, indeed, South America itinerary. Accordingly there are many expensive restaurants on the central Plaza de Armas; along the small Procuradores alley, also called "Gringo Alley," pubs and pizzerias throng together. During the day, this bustle can be avoided by taking a stroll through the Inca ruin Sacsayhuman to the north of the city (warning: the thin air here may pose a problem). At night, it's best to stay on Cusco's well-lit and crowded streets.

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