Calle Saphy, Historical street in central Cusco, Peru
Calle Saphy is a street running through central Cusco that contains significant religious and historical buildings including the Casa de Mateo Pumacahua. The route follows the course of an ancient waterway and connects different neighborhoods with traditional construction styles.
The street was created in the 1920s and 1930s following a diversion of the Saphy River, with ancient Inca engineering techniques applied during construction. This project merged modern city planning with traditional regional engineering knowledge.
The street displays traditional Peruvian architecture alongside religious buildings like the Convento de Santa Teresa that shaped community life. These structures reflect how religious institutions influenced the city's development and character.
The street sits centrally in Cusco and is easily reached on foot from other city sights. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the area is hilly with stone pathways.
The street was built above a fully enclosed river whose course remains visible beneath the pavement today. This hidden waterway is a remnant of early 20th-century city development.
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