Cusco University Paranymph, Andean Baroque building in Plaza de Armas, Peru
Cusco University Paranymph is an Andean Baroque building located at Plaza de Armas featuring elaborately decorated stone walls and a representative entrance portal. The structure clearly displays regional architectural patterns from Peru's colonial period.
The land belonged to Amaru Cancha, the Inca Huayna Capac's palace and panaca residence. After the conquest the lots were divided among Spaniards, including Hernando Pizarro, and one section became a prison. In 1571 the Jesuits arrived and wealthy families bought and donated the Pizarro property to them. In 1780 Túpac Amaru II and his family were held in a prison portion before execution in the Plaza de Armas.
The building's name, Paraninfo, is the Spanish term for a university's ceremonial hall, and it still serves that role for the National University of San Antonio Abad. A section of the complex held Túpac Amaru II and his family before their public execution in the Plaza de Armas in 1780.
The building is easily found at Plaza de Armas and can be visited regularly to explore its architectural features. Visitors should note that it remains an active academic space, so opening hours may vary depending on the university calendar.
Part of the building served as a prison for Túpac Amaru II, his family and followers before their public execution in the Plaza de Armas in 1780. The site was originally part of Amaru Cancha, the residence built by Inca Huayna Capac for his panaca.
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