Written by:
peru.travel
Friday, July 24, 2020
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In the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas is located one of the most charming and preferred towns for those who come to Cusco. Located 45 minutes from the Imperial City -road to Machu Picchu-, Pisac has become an important tourist destination not only for hosting a valuable archaeological park that is distinguished by its large number of platforms and towers, but also for hosting in its main plaza a traditional craft market that captivates with its colorful and endearing atmosphere.
A market that has it all
It is a fair with hundreds of tents offering all kinds of unique products made by local artisans, as well as from nearby communities. Looms, chullos and coats with alpaca wool, silver jewelry and ornaments, flutes, backpacks and other accessories; all are made by hand and decorated with bright colors resulting in a beauty in sight. At each step you will be amazed with all that each stand offers, always accompanied by the beautiful sound of a flute produced by a musician who transits the place.
You will also find foods such as organic fruits and vegetables that are farm in the valley, typical foods such as cheese and sweet potato empanadas, and also traditional drinks like chicha de jora (obtained from fermented corn) and frutillada (also made of the fermented corn, but some more fruits are added in the process). This is also a market for the local people, who take advantage to do their shopping for the week.
Another of the things that make visitors be amazed by this place, is the warm and jovial treatment they receive from the sellers. When you approach to ask about a product, they will always attend you with affection and, even, they will tell you stories of the place in order to have a pleasant moment between laughter and anecdotes. Remember that bargaining is allowed here, so don't be guided by the first price they tell you; check with other stands and compare prices.
How did the artisan market start?
During the Inca period, the town of Pisac had a great agricultural relevance. Thanks to the system of its platforms, the population farmed food of all kinds such as corn, quinoa, potatoes and kiwicha. Over time, the main plaza became an important commercial area and for several decades in the market as it is currently known.
Getting there
From the city of Cusco, you must go to Puputi street -15 minutes from downtown-. From this place, minivans and buses leave for Pisac: prices oscillate between 4 and 7 soles. If you want to travel more comfortably, you can also hire a taxi for approximately 50 soles. Do not forget to wear comfortable and warm clothes to withstand the temperature change that occurs in the afternoon hours where the cold is felt.
On the other hand, be sure to visit the Pisac archaeological park. Located on top of a mountain, this incredible place was one of the most important Inca centers. As was the custom in the architecture of the time -where the cities were built on the basis of figurative lines of animals-, the city of Pisac seen from above has the shape of a partridge, as its name means in Quechua.
Sources: Diario del Viajero / Boleto Machu Picchu / Turismo ipe / Machu Picchu Tours / Fotografiando viajes / Cusco Perú
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