We used the last two days in Peru for a more leisurely look at Cusco. You have seen some of the sights in this first section of pictures before, but this will give you the daylight glimpse.
There was a photographer in the plaza trying to find anyone that might be interested in having a picture taken in front of the statue of Pachacuti. The majority of visitors were taking selfies, but he was out there trying anyway. At one point he did decide to take a break though.
One night we ate at a buffet called Tunupa. This was no typical buffet. There were many Peruvian dishes as well as sushi, mexican, and a nicely stocked dessert table. Neither one of us took pictures…we must have been too focused on the food, which was wonderful. There was live entertainment as well, which was an added treat.
Peruvian McDonalds 
Our lodging 
Hot drinks for a cold day 
Shop in downtown 
Plaza de Armas 
Cusco Cathedral 
Pachacuti 
Ready for the buffet 
Shops around the plaza 
Photographer taking a break
There are plenty of museums in Cusco and we picked a few to visit. Many of the museums do not allow photography once inside, which is unfortunate.
The religious complex of Qorikancha, which contains the Temple of the Sun, was the most sacred site in Inca religion. The Christian monastery of Santo Domingo was built on top of the complex by the Spaniards to signal the superiority of one religion over the other. Many of the gold Incan artifacts from the site were melted down and sent back to the Spanish crown. It is sad to think these artifacts are gone forever. Many of the walls, interior and exterior, are no longer intact. There is also a dimly lit, and mildly interesting, underground museum under the main gardens in front of the complex. It could definitely benefit from a remodeling.
The Mueso Historico Regional was a nicely curated collection of artifacts and historical information.
One of the more interesting stops was the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. This monastery is still functioning today. When we visited, the museum was open, but the rest of the site was closed off as the nuns were cloistered at that time. Young girls would commit to a lifetime of serving the Lord in the monastery and spent most of their time creating the ornate clothing worn by priests and other textile items needed by the church. I really can’t begin to imagine this life.
Our time in Peru is coming to an end. The original focus for the trip was Machu Picchu, but the entire visit was filled with incredible sights and history. We very easily could have spent another week visiting all of the historical sites, and a few weeks absorbing local culture. My gut tells me I will be back.
It’s time to catch a flight to Chile.
Stay tuned…Will