If you’re looking for a different destination steeped in history on your trip to Cusco, **Andahuaylillas** is a must-visit. This small town, located in the South Valley, is home to one of the most impressive architectural and artistic gems in the Americas: the **Church of San Pedro Apóstol**, known as the **”Sistine Chapel of the Americas”**. However, Andahuaylillas is not just about art and religion; its culture, landscapes, and people make it a special place that will transport you back in time.
Contents
Where is Andahuaylillas located and how can you get there?
Andahuaylillas is located in the South Valley of Cusco, about 45 kilometers southeast of the city. It is part of a less explored but fascinating route that includes archaeological sites like Tipón and Piquillacta, as well as towns with a strong colonial heritage. These short distances allow visitors to explore multiple sites in a single day, immersing themselves in the rich history and culture of the region.
Options to get to Andahuaylillas
- En autobús: From Avenida de la Cultura in Cusco, you can take a bus towards Urcos. The journey takes approximately **one hour** and costs between **3 to 5 soles**.
- En taxi o servicio privado: A more comfortable option is to take a taxi from Cusco, with an approximate cost of 30 to 50 soles. There are also tourism agencies that include Andahuaylillas in their South Valley tours.
- En tour guiado: Many agencies offer half-day tours that include visits to other points in the South Valley, providing you with a more complete experience with detailed explanations and a very personalized service.
What does the name Andahuaylillas mean?
The name **Andahuaylillas** has roots in the Quechua language and has been interpreted in different ways. Some historians suggest that it comes from the combination of the words:
- “Anta”, which can refer to “copper” or “deer”.
- “Huaylla”, meaning meadow or wetland.
Thus, Andahuaylillas could mean “Copper Meadow” or “Meadow of the Deer”, both interpretations related to the geography and fauna of the place in the past.
History of Andahuaylillas
Before the arrival of the Spanish, Andahuaylillas was an area occupied by the **Incas and pre-Incas**, who established **administrative and religious centers** in its surroundings. The construction of the current church over an ancient **Inca temple** is evidence of the religious and cultural influence of the colonial era.
During the 16th century, the arrival of the Jesuits in this region marked a **process of evangelization**, and art was used as a visual and educational medium for this. Thus, the **Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol (Church of San Pedro Apóstol)** was born, a construction that today remains a testimony to the cultural mestizaje between Andean and European traditions.
Throughout the centuries, Andahuaylillas has preserved its colonial essence, with adobe houses, cobblestone streets, and a tranquil atmosphere that will transport you back in time.
Art in Andahuaylillas: An impressive legacy
If you are an art lover, Andahuaylillas will surprise you with its combination of European and Andean techniques reflected in its temples, murals, and sculptures. The artistic richness of this town is mainly manifested in the **Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol (Church of San Pedro Apóstol)**, where every corner is a work of art.
Outstanding artistic elements in Andahuaylillas
- Retablos and pulpits: Designed in carved wood and covered with gold leaf, they reflect the splendor of Baroque art.
- Murals and frescoes: These works narrate religious stories with a fusion of Andean symbology, something characteristic of viceregal art in Cusco.
- Paintings from the Cusco School: The canvases adorning the temple are representative examples of this artistic movement, which blended European technique with the indigenous worldview.
- Details in gold leaf and polychromed wood: The interior of the church dazzles with the richness of its ornaments, all crafted with incredible precision.
What places to visit in Andahuaylillas?
This town not only stands out for its church but also for its surroundings and colonial architecture. Here are some key points you shouldn’t miss:
Church of San Pedro Apóstol: The Sistine Chapel of the Americas
Built in the 16th century, this church is considered **one of the most beautiful in Peru**. Its simple exterior appearance contrasts with the richness of its interior, where ceilings decorated with gold leaf, frescoes from the Cusco School, and an impressive altar await you.
When visiting this temple, don’t miss:
- The vault painted with religious and floral motifs.
- The mural of the “Road to Heaven and Hell”, a representation of good and evil.
- The original colonial organs, considered the oldest in South America.
Plaza de Armas of Andahuaylillas: A charming place
In the center of the town is the Plaza de Armas, a welcoming space surrounded by centenary trees and colonial mansions. Here you can rest, admire the local architecture, and enjoy the tranquility that characterizes Andahuaylillas.
What makes this plaza special?
- Pisonay and palm trees, which give it a picturesque and natural air.
- Traditional atmosphere, with cobblestone streets and well-preserved adobe houses.
- Interaction with locals, who often share their stories and customs with visitors.
Museo Ritos Andinos: A journey to the Andean cosmovision
This museum, located near the church, offers an interesting exhibition on Andean beliefs and rituals. Here you can learn more about the fusion of indigenous traditions with Christianity, a key aspect of the region’s cultural identity.
Tips for your visit to Andahuaylillas
If you decide to explore this wonderful town, keep the following tips in mind:
- Lleva ropa ligera y una chaqueta, as the weather can vary during the day.
- No olvides protector solar y sombrero, especially if you visit during the dry season.
- Lleva efectivo, as some shops and tourist entrances do not accept cards.
- Respeta las normas en the church, as it is a religious site and a historical heritage.
- Take the opportunity to visit other nearby destinations, such as Tipón, Piquillacta, or Raqchi.
