Andahuaylillas in Cusco

The town of Andahuaylillas (province of Quispicanchis) is 40 kms. from the city of Cusco, on the road that leads to the region of Puno. Its original name is Antahuaylla meaning on the plain, later in colonial times it was called Andahuaylillas. The place is quiet and you can breathe pure and warm air. It highlights its beautiful colonial structure, the traditions of the place, the Plaza de Armas and especially the church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas.

If you do the Tour to the South Valley of Cusco, you will meet the place at the end of your route. It is really beautiful and you will find the best silver artisans in Cusco.

They have amazing work and the prices are really incredible. They also make sweaters and alpaca handicrafts.

Attractions in Andahuaylillas

The church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas

The church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas was built in the 16th century, which is one of the major attractions for local and international travelers. It is considered the Sistine Chapel of America and Cusco because it contains works of great artistic quality and unique beauty.

The facade is located on an esplanade in the square, to enter you have to climb some stone stairs that come from stones collected from an Inca settlement near the site. At the top there is a balcony (as can be seen in the photo), and in the atrium, three stone crosses with pre-Columbian engravings.

The interior of the Sistine Chapel of Cusco is adorned with murals, baroque altars, wood carvings and presents beautiful paintings of the Cusco School of Painting, which had its heyday in colonial times. The mural paintings stand out, showing themes related to: good and evil, sin and virtue, heaven and hell, Bible stories and saints.

Its structure is beautiful but modest, its interior is impressive. Among the highlights is a painting of the Virgin of the Assumption, whose author is the Spaniard Esteban Murillo. You can also consider the murals of Luis Riaño and a beautiful oil painting of the archangel St. Michael. In addition, the painting of the Virgin of the Rosary that is in the chapel has been attributed to Diego Quispe Tito. On the other hand there are several anonymous images in the place of impressive beauty.

The entrance to the church of San Pedro is from Monday to Sunday from 7:30 to 5:30 pm. The Museum is located next to the church with lithic remains, collections, utensils and mummies. Nearby there are some textile and silver craftsmen

Entrance to the Sistine Chapel of Cusco

Admission for adults is S /. 10 and children and students S /. 5 to enter the Temple of Andahuaylillas. The Cusco Tourist Ticket does not include this tour. It is the only route in South Valley that is not included in the Complete Ticket. General admission is from 7:30 to 5:30 pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 am. to 6 pm and Sundays at 10:30 am. The place does not allow taking pictures.

Andahuaylillas Square

The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by coral or pisonay trees and palm trees. It is one of the most traditional and oldest squares in Cusco. Around the square there are craft stores that show their work, there are also stalls selling all kinds of products.