Cusco Historic Center

Cusco, Peru
13th--17th century
When Cusco became the capital of the Incas in the fourteenth century, its status as a political, religious, and economic center across a vast region of South America was unchallenged. The city took on a new identity under Spanish colonial rule (established in 1534), but remained important despite having to cede its status as capital to the city of Lima, the seat of the colonial government. Cloisters, churches, palaces, and private houses defined the cityscape, with the Spanish building many structures atop Inca stone walls. Cusco became a largely baroque city after a devastating earthquake in 1650. Today, significant portions of the historic city center are devolving into slums as population density increases. Many historically important dwellings are decaying. The crowding is exacerbated by escalating tourism, which has displaced neighborhood residents. American Express supported a plan for a pilot study for citywide restoration. Municipal authorities proceeded to carry out minimal work recommended by the plan. Cusco is among the world's most significant urban centers and a master plan for its viability must be implemented and enforced. Cusco is on the World Heritage List.

Listed in 1996