Ayacucho

Located in a fertile Andean valley at 2,746 meters elevation, Ayacucho contains numerous colonial buildings, including a 17th-century cathedral and traditional churches.

Founded in 1539 by Francisco Pizarro as Huamanga, the city gained its current name in 1825 to commemorate the battle that secured Peru's independence.

The city maintains thirty-three colonial churches representing each year of Jesus' life and celebrates extensive Holy Week festivities with traditional ceremonies.

Travelers can reach Ayacucho through regular flights from Lima or by taking highways that connect to major Peruvian cities like Huancayo and Cusco.

Local artisans produce traditional handicrafts including textiles, pottery, and leather goods, earning Ayacucho recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Folk Art.

Location: Huamanga Province

Inception: April 25, 1540

Elevation above the sea: 2,761 m

GPS coordinates: -13.16043,-74.22570

Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:11