SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CUSCO
The San Blas Neighborhood in Cusco is known as the neighborhood of artisans. Here you can view the beautiful church of San Blas and traditional colonial-style streets along with the best vistas of Cusco at night.
The San Blas Neighborhood is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in the historic center. It is located on a hill (called T´oqocacchi) to the northeast of the historic center of the city, and is known for its narrow cobble stone streets, colonial houses and craft workshops.
THE CHURCH OF SAN BLAS
The church of San Blas is one of the most popular attractions in the neighborhood. Additionally, artisans provide many opportunities to discover unique artwork. Among the most famous pieces of art, you can find the Pulpit of San Blas, which is made of a single piece of wood and is decorated with more than 2,000 small pieces. This work of art was made by an artist and sculptor from Cusco named Juan Tomás Tuyro Tupac Inca by order of Bishop Manuel de Mollinedo y Angulo in the 17th century. In Incan times, this church was a Waka (sacred place) dedicated to the God Illapa, or the God of Lightning, which the Spanish destroyed in order to build the church.
HISTORY OF THE SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD
The San Blas Neighborhood was founded in the 16th century after the Spanish conquest of the Incas. The area was assigned to the indigenous artisans, who built their houses and workshops there. In the 17th century, the neighborhood became an important center for the production of religious objects, including images of saints and virgins.
THE SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD IN COLONIAL TIMES
During colonial times, the San Blas neighborhood was also home to some of Cusco’s most talented artists and architects, who left their mark on the city’s churches and public buildings. One of the most famous was Diego Quispe Tito, an indigenous painter who created some of the most beautiful frescoes in the city.
WHY VISIT THE SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD?
San Blas is a place where travelers can find the most breathtaking viewpoints in the evenings and at sunset. There are a variety of fantastic restobars, restaurants, cafes, and bars. San Blas is known as the bohemian haven, as you will find many artistic and musical events happening daily and each night.
THE SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD TODAY
Today, the San Blas neighborhood is still a center for arts and culture, and is a popular place among tourists looking for unique pieces of jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. It boasts a mixture of many contrasting decorations adorning the colonial houses, balconies and doors, displaying the work of master carvers and artists.
FAMILIES OF RECOGNIZED ARTISANS IN SAN BLAS
San Blas is known as the neighborhood of artisans, and has a long colonial historical tradition, hosting the best-known artisan families of Spanish descent in Cusco. Notable families include the Mendívil, Olave, and Aller families among others. Each of these families of artists boast their own style and family traditions. Additionally, this neighborhood’s streets date back to the viceregal era, which provides rich history and cultural roots.
VISIT THE SAN BLAS NEIGHBORHOOD WITH THE FREE WALKING TOUR CUSCO
Our free tours take participants through this traditional neighborhood visiting the most important attractions such as its streets, balconies, museums and viewpoints. A musical performance featuring different instruments is also included.
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