As one of the oldest cities in Peru, Ayacucho is a popular destination for travelers due to its rich culture and history. One of the must-see landmarks in Ayacucho is the Plaza de Armas, which is the center of the city and the main square. Here, visitors can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the colonial architecture to sampling local cuisine. Here are 10 things to do in Plaza de Armas, Ayacucho, Peru.
1. Visit the Cathedral of Ayacucho: The Cathedral of Ayacucho is the centerpiece of the Plaza de Armas and was built in 1563. It is the oldest cathedral in Peru and features a beautiful Baroque façade. Inside, visitors can find a variety of religious art and artifacts, including a painting of the Last Supper by the famous Peruvian artist Francisco Pizarro.
2. Explore the Museo de Arte Popular: Located in the Plaza de Armas, the Museo de Arte Popular is a great place to learn about the culture of Ayacucho. The museum showcases a variety of traditional artworks, such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry, as well as folkloric dances and music.
3. Admire the Colonial Architecture: The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by a number of beautiful colonial-style buildings, such as the Palacio Municipal, which was built in the 18th century. Visitors can also explore the nearby streets, which are lined with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
4. Visit the Monument to the Heroes of Ayacucho: Located in the center of the Plaza de Armas, the Monument to the Heroes of Ayacucho is a tribute to the heroes who fought in the Battle of Ayacucho, which took place in 1824. The monument features a bronze statue of General Antonio José de Sucre, who led the Peruvian forces in the battle.
5. Take a Tour of the San Cristobal Fortress: Located on the east side of the Plaza de Armas, the San Cristobal Fortress was built in the 17th century and is one of the largest Spanish fortresses in South America. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fortress to learn about its history and explore the old prison cells.
6. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, where visitors can sample the local cuisine. Popular dishes include ceviche, a spicy fish dish, and chicha morada, a sweet purple corn drink.
7. Shop at the Mercado Municipal: Located just south of the Plaza de Armas, the Mercado Municipal is a great place to buy souvenirs and local crafts. Visitors can find everything from brightly-colored textiles to handmade pottery.
8. Attend a Festival: Ayacucho is known for its vibrant festivals, which take place throughout the year. The most popular festival is the Festival de la Candelaria, which is held every February and celebrates the Virgin of Candelaria.
9. Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo: Located in the Plaza de Armas, the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo is a great place to learn about the history of contemporary art in Peru. The museum features a variety of artworks from local and international artists.
10. Take a Hike: Just outside of the city, visitors can find a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Popular trails include the Inca Trail, which leads to the ruins of the ancient Inca city of Vilcashuaman.
No matter what type of traveler you are, there is something for everyone at the Plaza de Armas in Ayacucho, Peru. From exploring the colonial architecture to sampling the local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do and see in this historic city.