Cusco

In 1438, the city of Cusco became the capital of the Inca Empire under the leadership of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. The Inca Empire, known as Tawantinsuyu, was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. Pachacuti transformed the Kingdom of Cusco into a vast empire and established Cusco as its capital, ruling over the Andes mountains of Peru and beyond. The city was planned and built in the shape of a puma, a sacred animal in Inca culture, with its urban center located at what is now the Plaza de Armas.

On November 15, 1533, the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro and his men captured Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire. This event marked a significant turning point in South American history, as it signaled the collapse of the Inca Empire and the beginning of Spanish colonial influence in the region. The conquest of Cusco followed the capture of the Inca ruler Atahualpa, whom Pizarro had taken prisoner, demanding a ransom in gold and silver that was ultimately fulfilled but did not prevent Atahualpa’s execution.

On September 24, 1572, Túpac Amaru, considered the last Inca emperor, was captured and executed by the Spanish colonial authorities in Cusco. This execution marked the final suppression of major organized Inca resistance and symbolized the collapse of remaining Inca political power. Túpac Amaru was captured after a prolonged struggle against the Spanish forces who sought to solidify their control over the Andes and suppress indigenous insurrections. His execution was intended to deter further rebellion but eventually became a powerful symbol of resistance for future generations seeking to honor Inca heritage and resist colonial oppression.

On November 4, 1780, José Gabriel Condorcanqui, known as Túpac Amaru II, led an indigenous uprising against the Spanish colonial rulers in the region of Cusco. This rebellion was sparked by the oppressive exploitation and treatment of indigenous peoples and their communities under Spanish colonial rule. Túpac Amaru's movement aimed to end the injustices faced by the indigenous population and sought to abolish forced labor and the taxes imposed by the Spanish authorities. The rebellion, however, was eventually suppressed, and Túpac Amaru II was captured and executed, though his uprising left a lasting legacy as a symbol of resistance against colonialism.

On December 9, 1824, the Battle of Ayacucho took place near the city of Cusco, marking a decisive victory for the independence forces of South America against the Spanish royalist army. This battle was pivotal in securing the independence of Peru from Spanish rule, effectively ending Spain's grip on much of South America. Led by General Antonio José de Sucre, the patriot forces defeated the Spanish army under the Viceroy José de la Serna. The victory at Ayacucho ensured the liberation of Peru and significantly contributed to the chain of independence movements sweeping across the continent.

On May 21, 1950, a powerful earthquake struck Cusco, causing significant destruction in the city. The quake damaged many buildings, including historic structures and colonial buildings, such as the Temple of the Sun (Coricancha) and many of the old churches in Cusco. The earthquake resulted in the loss of lives and left thousands homeless. The event prompted efforts to preserve and reconstruct Cusco’s historical sites, emphasizing the importance of protecting the city's unique architectural heritage. The city’s recovery and rebuilding efforts highlighted the resilience of the Cusco population.

On December 9, 1983, the historic center of Cusco was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation recognized the city's cultural and historical significance as the capital of the Inca Empire and its role during the Spanish colonial period. The UNESCO listing also acknowledged the combination of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture present in Cusco, which includes notable sites such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Cusco, and the ruins of the ancient Temple of the Sun. The recognition by UNESCO has helped to protect and preserve Cusco's unique cultural heritage for future generations.

On March 10, 2001, the Cusco Region was formally established as part of Peru's regionalization law, aiming to decentralize the country's governance structure and provide more autonomy to local governments. This administrative change intended to improve the management and development of the region, which includes the historic city of Cusco and other important areas. The Cusco Region's creation allowed for better resource allocation, regional planning, and decision-making, emphasizing sustainable development and cultural preservation. The establishment of the region was part of a broader effort to address regional disparities and promote economic growth in various parts of Peru.

On December 1, 2015, the expansion of Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco was inaugurated. This expansion was part of a major project aimed at improving Cusco's connectivity and infrastructure to support its status as a major tourist destination. The airport expansion introduced new facilities and enhanced services to handle a growing number of passengers visiting Cusco for its cultural and historical attractions, including Machu Picchu. The modernized airport has played a crucial role in boosting the local economy by facilitating tourism and commerce while ensuring safe and efficient transportation for visitors and residents alike.

On June 24, 2019, Cusco celebrated the Inti Raymi festival, an ancient Inca celebration dedicated to the sun god, Inti. This event, marking the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, was revived in modern times as a cultural celebration that draws thousands of national and international visitors to Cusco. The festival includes traditional music, dances, and a theatrical representation of an ancient Inca ceremony, taking place at the historic sites of Qorikancha and Sacsayhuamán. The revival of Inti Raymi has become an important cultural event that showcases the rich Inca heritage and traditions, contributing significantly to Cusco's cultural tourism industry.