Peru stands out as one of the most historic countries in South America. Whether it's the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu or the buildings from the colonial period, Peru's past is evident around every corner. History-loving travelers often make a trip to Cusco part of their South America tours, and with a long list of attractions dating back centuries, it's easy to see why.
One of the last remaining relics of the Incas is Coricancha. Originally built as a temple to honor the sun god, the building was eventually demolished by colonists in order to build the Church of Santo Domingo. The settlers used the temple's foundation in its construction, which can still be seen today and serves as a lasting reminder of the scope of power of the Incan Empire.
While few Inca buildings remain inside the city, Cusco is home to a number of structures with histories to the earliest days of colonization by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, including the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus. This famous church dates as far back as 1576 and its intricate design stands as a symbol of one of the most transformative eras in South American history.
Of course, not all highlights of Cusco are centuries-old churches. There are also many buildings that pay tribute to the city's more modern history. Most notably, the city is home to the Estadio Garcilaso, which will certainly appeal to soccer fans who make their way to Peru. The famous stadium holds around 30,000 spectators and occupies a crucial place in the public concsciousness. It has also played host to a number of important matches over the years and is the home field for Club Cienciano.
