The 8 religious and spiritual temples of Cusco

Cusco is not only the heart of the ancient Inca Empire but also an epicenter of faith, tradition, and monumental architecture. Each temple is a silent witness to the fusion between the Andean world and European spirituality. Its walls, laden with symbolism and art, enclose centuries of sacred history. From colonial churches of astonishing beauty to Inca temples dedicated to the sun, Cusco offers a mystical and unforgettable experience for every visitor. Discover the 8 most impressive religious temples you must visit in Cusco.

1. The Cusco Cathedral

Located in the emblematic Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. Built between 1560 and 1664 on the ancient Inca palace of Viracocha, it houses three temples inside. Its imposing Baroque facade and gilded altarpieces reveal the splendor of sacred art from Cusco.

Must-sees:

• 27 kg (approx. 60 lbs) gold monstrance with precious stones.
• More than 400 canvases from the Cusco school of art.
• The Black Christ or “Lord of Earthquakes” (Señor de los Temblores).

Location: Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 40 adults (approx. $10.70 USD)

2. Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús)

Considered one of the most elegant in South America, this church was built on the ruins of Huayna Cápac’s palace. Its main altarpiece, carved in cedar and covered in gold leaf, is one of the tallest in the city. The church stands out for its Renaissance facade and its interior filled with sacred art.

Highlights:

• Monumental altarpiece measuring 21 meters (approx. 69 feet).
• Canvases by Diego de la Puente and Marcos Zapata.
• Underground crypt with tombs of nobles.

Location: Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 16 adults (approx. $4.30 USD)

3. Church of La Merced (Iglesia de La Merced)

This Baroque temple dazzles with its artistic and spiritual richness. Its main attraction is the monstrance of La Merced: a unique piece made of solid gold, with more than a thousand diamonds and pearls. It was rebuilt several times after earthquakes, remaining one of the city’s religious icons.

Don’t miss:

• 22 kg (approx. 48.5 lbs) gold monstrance.
• Colonial murals and wood carvings.
• Celebration of the Lord of Earthquakes (Señor de los Temblores).

Location: Plazoleta Espinar, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 15 adults (approx. $4.00 USD)

4. Temple of San Blas (Templo de San Blas)

Situated on a cobblestone hillside in the historic San Blas neighborhood, this temple is known for its intimate atmosphere and exquisite cedar-carved pulpit, a masterpiece of mestizo art. Its history dates back to 1544, when it was built on an ancient Inca temple dedicated to the god Illapa (thunder).

Worth noting:

• Hand-carved Baroque pulpit.
• Cozy and silent atmosphere.
• Inca funerary art beneath its foundations.

Location: Plazoleta San Blas, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 15 adults (approx. $4.00 USD)

5. Monastery of Santa Catalina (Monasterio de Santa Catalina)

Erected on an Inca Acllahuasi (House of the Chosen Women), this monastery was home to consecrated women since pre-Columbian times. Today it houses a fascinating museum that reveals monastic life throughout the centuries, with lattices, cloisters, and pieces of religious art that narrate female spirituality in the Viceroyalty.

Key areas:

• Silent cloisters and colonial corridors.
• Paintings from the Cusco school of art.
• Monastic living spaces still in use.

Location: Calle Santa Catalina Angosta 401, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 8 adults (approx. $2.15 USD)

6. Coricancha – The Inca Temple of the Sun That Defied Time

Coricancha, or “Golden Enclosure,” was the most sacred sanctuary of the Tahuantinsuyo. Here, the god Inti was venerated, and its walls once shone covered with gold sheets. With the arrival of the Spanish, the Convent of Santo Domingo was built on its foundations, merging two spiritual worlds in a single space.

Be amazed by:

• Inca walls of millimeter perfection.
• Convent tower and colonial museum.
• Temples dedicated to the moon, stars, and more.

Location: Plazoleta Santo Domingo, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 15 adults (approx. $4.00 USD)

7. Church of Andahuaylillas (Iglesia de Andahuaylillas)

Located in the peaceful town of Andahuaylillas, 45 km (approx. 28 miles) from Cusco, this 16th-century church dazzles with its intensely decorated interior. Ceilings, walls, and altars are completely covered with frescoes, canvases, and gilded details that make it one of the most valuable Baroque jewels in the Americas.

Masterpieces:

• Paintings by Diego Quispe Tito and Medoro.
• Original Baroque organ.
• Altarpieces heavily adorned with gold.

Location: Plaza de Andahuaylillas, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 15 adults (approx. $4.00 USD)

8. Machu Picchu

Although best known as an archaeological wonder, Machu Picchu was also a sacred center of worship. Within the citadel are enclosures such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, and the Sacred Rock, all dedicated to the Apus (mountain spirits), the sun, and natural deities.

Andean mysticism:

• Temple of the Sun and the Condor.
• Unique spiritual energy.
• Settings for meditation and inner connection.

Location: Urubamba Province, Aguas Calientes, Cusco
Entrance: S/ 152 foreigners (approx. $40.50 USD) | S/ 64 Peruvians (approx. $17.00 USD)

Why Visit These Religious Temples in Cusco?

Cusco is much more than a city: it is a portal to the past and the sacred. In its churches and temples, the Andean worldview, colonial art, and living spirituality intertwine. If you are a lover of history, art, or simply seeking a different experience, these temples will leave you breathless.