Bohemian San Blas in Cusco
Just four blocks up from the Plaza de Armas you`ll find one the most famous neighborhood in Cusco, picturesque Barrio San Blas, often referred to as the Artists´ District. Often a highlight for travelers, its narrow and steep cobblestone streets are lined with colonial buildings with distinctive blue balconies. It is most known for its plethora of art galleries and shops and the workshops of renowned local artists and artisans such as the Mendívil family, known for their long-necked archangels.
San Blas is worth exploring for its quality 
restaurants and cafes, Saturday art fairs in the Plaza San Blas, great views overlooking the city of Cusco, and the overwhelming artistry of the pulpit in the Church of San Blas. Get there from the Plaza de Armas by following Calle Triunfo, passing the Inca Wall of Hatun Rumiyoc with its famous 12-sided stone- it´ll take just five minutes to arrive.
San Blas during the Inca Empire
In the time of the Inca Empire San Blas was T’oqo-kachi (Salt Hollow). The hill was marked by terraces with fertile crops, irrigation canals, freshwater and saltwater waterfalls, salt-gathering pits, and shrines. It was mainly inhabited by the Quechua nobility and the mitimaes, groups of pilgrim artisans who traveled to the center of the empire in order to teach their local techniques and learn others.
The Oldest Parish Church in Cusco
The 16th centu
ry Church of San Blas, the oldest parish church in Cusco, was built over an Inca Shrine to Illapa, the god of thunder and lightning. During its construction the mummy of Inca Pachacutec was unearthed, with a hole in its head perhaps providing cause of death, by Polo Ondegardo, who sent his discovery to Lima. After the 1650 and 1950 earthquakes the simple mud brick structure, typical of Indian
parish churches during the viceroyalty, was reinforced with stone walls and the bell tower rebuilt in stone. Although the modest exterior is free of ornamentation, inside, the single aisle leads to a shockingly ornate churrigueresque masterwork. The pulpit of San Blas is one of the most treasured pieces of colonial art on the continent, its intricate filigree carved from a single cedar trunk. The skull resting at the feet of Saint Paul is said to belong to the unknown indigenous master who produced the carving.
(Mon-Sat 8am-6pm/ Sundays and holidays 10am – 6pm)
Where to Stay in San Blas
Let the friendly staff of cozy and relaxed Pirwa Backpackers Familiar Hostel, on Carmen Alto Street in San Blas, welcome you to the Imperial City of Cusco. The hostel offers private rooms or dorm accommodations, always with comfy beds and access to 24hr hot showers. A continental breakfast, self-serve mate de coca to ward off altitude sickness, and free Wi-Fi and internet access are all included in Pirwa´s low prices.
Before heading out, swing past the Pirwa Travel counter for tour or travel assistance or tourist information. The staff is always ready to recommend must-see sights for the daytime and good restaurants and bars for the night. You won`t have to worry about your belongings while you´re exploring Cusco and its surroundings, thanks to the security lockers, free baggage storage, and 24hr reception.
If you feel like staying in, perhaps recovering from the Inca trail or other treks, grab a hammock and relax in the sunshine in the patio, or you can whip up a snack in the self-catering kitchen and watch a movie in the lounge.
Pirwa anticipates your needs to make sure your stay in Cusco is a pleasant one. If you´re looking for comfort, security, and community at low prices, give Pirwa Backpackers Familiar Hostel in San Blas a try.