San Blas Neighborhood
This neighborhood is the art district of Cuzco, and not surprisingly, a favorite spot for visitors. Just wander down one of the narrow, winding streets and you'll find plenty of charming cafes, bars, interesting restaurants, and artist workshops. Most of the area is on a hill, except for the Plaza San Blas, where there is a large concentration of quaint hotels, street vendors, and white houses with blue doors and windows, many which serve as workshops and art classrooms.
History
The artisan tradition started when Inca Pachacutec Yupanqui reserved this area of the empire for artisans, which resulted in melting pot of artists and craftsmen from around the region. By passing down knowledge from generation to generation San Blas continues to hold on to its heritage of fine artists.
Highlights
The Iglesia San Blas, located in the center of the Plaza, has an intricate carved wooden pulpit that is thought to be one of the finest in South America. Built four centuries ago by order of bishop of Manuel Mollinedo, this church is a perfect reflection of the mastery of colonial art and architecture.
Located at the Plaza San Blas at Tandapata 684, the cozy La Musa Café has some of the best views in Cuzco. Enjoy a latte or fresh juice at one of the outside tables while overlooking the nearby San Blas Church and watching the sun set on the red roofs of the city.
Just around the corner at Cuesta San Blas 571, Maconda looks more like an artsy coffeehouse than a restaurant, but serves up some imaginative South American food in a laid back tropical atmosphere. Named after the town that is the setting for Garcia Marquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude," the bar also has two daily happy hours where they serve up refreshing cocktails.
Lodging
The Boutique Hotel Casa San Blas is a favorite in the neighborhood because of its home-like atmosphere and location just a few blocks from the main square. The hotel is housed in a renovated historic colonial mansion that has all of the amenities of a modern building. The Casa Andina Hotel is also an option, with cozy rooms and great views of the city.
Hotel Casa San Blas Website
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