Cuzco, officially founded in 1100 A.D., was home to the developed Nazca and Moche civilizations before being established as the capital of the vast Inca Empire.
Cuzco might hold the most impressive past of any Latin American city; amazingly enough, the foundations of Inca temples continue to support Spanish colonial and other structures to this day. This city's rich history and cultural diversity - from the stonework of the Temple of the Sun to the great colonial churches of the 16th century - make it the perfect place to get to know Peruvian indigenous and colonial cultures.
What's more, Cuzco's central location means you can explore the entire country in a cinch... and in any case Peru's main attractions, Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, are located in the same region! Between classes and on the weekends you can take a short trip to discover these and other lesser known sites, enriching your Spanish language education with a wealth of cultural curiosities.
