San Blas

Cusco's artisans' quarter: steep cobbled lanes, blue balconies, workshops and a church with a pulpit carved from a single tree.

  • Address: Plazoleta de San Blas, Cusco
  • District: San Blas, Cusco
  • Category: historic neighborhood

Perched on the hillside just above the Plaza de Armas, San Blas is Cusco's artisans' quarter, a maze of steep cobbled lanes and stone staircases lined with whitewashed houses, blue-painted balconies, workshops and small galleries. The way up passes Hatunrumiyoc street, where the famous Twelve-Angled Stone sits in an Inca wall, one of the most photographed stones in Peru. At the top, the small Plazoleta de San Blas gathers cafes, craft shops and the colonial church of San Blas, whose carved wooden pulpit, cut from a single piece of cedar, is among the finest examples of colonial woodwork in the Andes. Potters, painters, silversmiths and textile makers still work here, and the neighborhood has a quieter, more relaxed feel than the center, with plenty of cafes and views over the city's red roofs.

Highlights

  • The Twelve-Angled Stone in the Inca wall on Hatunrumiyoc street
  • The Plazoleta de San Blas, with its cafes and craft shops
  • The church of San Blas and its pulpit carved from a single piece of cedar
  • Workshops and galleries where artisans still work by hand
  • Stairways, blue balconies and rooftop views over Cusco

Ideal for

  • shoppers looking for handmade crafts
  • photographers and wanderers who enjoy unhurried streets
  • a relaxed walk once you have acclimatized to the altitude

Practical information

Hours
The streets are open at all times; shops and galleries generally keep daytime hours, and the church has its own visiting hours -- confirm locally
Price
Free to wander; the church and some workshops have their own entry or visiting arrangements -- confirm locally
Good to know
The lanes are steep and cobbled. At about 11,150 feet, go slowly, wear shoes with good grip and enjoy the stops along the way. Ask about the artist and the materials before buying a piece.

Frequently asked questions

What is San Blas known for?

It is Cusco's artisans' quarter, with steep cobbled lanes, workshops and galleries, cafes, and a church famous for its carved cedar pulpit.

Where is the Twelve-Angled Stone?

On Hatunrumiyoc street, in an Inca wall on the way up from the Plaza de Armas toward San Blas.

Is it far from the Plaza de Armas?

It is close enough to walk, but the way up is steep and cobbled, which is noticeable at altitude.

Can I buy handmade crafts there?

Yes. Many workshops and shops sell ceramics, paintings, silver and textiles made by local artisans.

What is the best time to visit?

Daytime, when workshops and galleries are open, with a pause for coffee at the plazoleta. The lanes are also beautiful at dusk.

What can I combine with San Blas?

The Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and La Compañía are close by, and the Cusco City Tour covers Sacsayhuaman above the city.