Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Cusco, Cusco, Peru
1. Cusco's Central Library
A vast collection of books in Spanish and English, with a focus on Peruvian culture and history.
- Huge Collection: Over 30,000 books available for readers.
- Free Access: Open to the public without any charges.
- Study Area: Spacious study areas for quiet reading and research.
2. Inka's House of the Wise (Amaru Cancha)
An ancient Inca university where students studied astronomy, agriculture, and literature.
- Historical Significance: One of the few remaining Inca educational institutions.
- Architectural Beauty: Beautifully preserved Incan architecture and designs.
- Cultural Events: Occasional cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions.
3. Cusco's Casa de la Literatura Peruana
A museum dedicated to Peruvian literature with a collection of manuscripts, first editions, and artifacts.
- Unique Exhibits: Exhibits on famous Peruvian authors such as Mario Vargas Llosa.
- Workshops and Talks: Regular workshops, talks, and book launches by local writers.
- Reading Room: A quiet reading room for visitors to enjoy Peruvian literature.
4. Qorikancha Bookstore
A bookstore specializing in Andean history and culture with a cozy atmosphere.
- Specialized Selection: Focuses on books related to Andean history, culture, and spirituality.
- Coffee Shop: Attached coffee shop for book lovers to relax and read.
- Local Authors: Features books by local Peruvian authors.
5. The Library of San Blas Church
A small but significant library inside the beautiful San Blas Church.
- Church Atmosphere: Read in a peaceful and spiritual setting within the church.
- Limited Collection: A carefully curated collection of religious, historical, and cultural books.
- Free Access: Open to the public without any charges.
6. Inka's Temple of the Sun (Coricancha)
An archaeological site where you can find a small library dedicated to Incan knowledge.
- Archaeological Site: Explore the historical Inca ruins while enjoying a quiet reading corner.
- Incan Knowledge: Books focusing on Incan history, astronomy, and agriculture.
- Limited Hours: Library hours may be limited due to the archaeological site's visiting times.
7. Cusco's National University Library
A large academic library with extensive resources on Peruvian culture and history.
- Academic Resources: In-depth books, journals, and articles on various subjects.
- Research Facilities: Equipped with research facilities for scholars and students.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
8. Cusco's Archaeological Museum Library
A library specializing in archaeology and history with a focus on the Inca civilization.
- Archeological Resources: In-depth books, articles, and artifacts related to Peruvian archeology.
- Research Facilities: Equipped with research facilities for scholars and students.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
9. Cusco's Cultural Center of the Nation Library
A library with a collection focusing on Peruvian culture, history, and arts.
- Cultural Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on various aspects of Peruvian culture.
- Art Exhibits: Regular art exhibitions showcasing local artists.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
10. Cusco's Museum of Contemporary Art Library
A library focusing on contemporary art and artists with a collection of art books.
- Contemporary Art Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on contemporary Peruvian art.
- Artist Talks: Regular talks by local artists and curators.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
11. Cusco's Museum of Pre-Columbian Art Library
A library focusing on pre-Columbian art and history with a collection of books.
- Pre-Columbian Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on pre-Columbian Peruvian art.
- Artifacts Exhibits: Regular exhibitions of pre-Columbian artifacts.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
12. Cusco's Museum of Andean Textiles, Dyeing and Spinning Library
A library focusing on the history, techniques, and cultural significance of textiles in the Andes.
- Textile Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on Andean textiles.
- Workshops: Regular workshops teaching traditional textile techniques.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
13. Cusco's Museum of Popular Art Library
A library focusing on traditional Peruvian art and crafts with a collection of books.
- Popular Art Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on traditional Peruvian arts.
- Artisan Workshops: Regular workshops teaching traditional art techniques.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
14. Cusco's Museum of Religious Art Library
A library focusing on religious art and history with a collection of books.
- Religious Art Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on Andean religious art.
- Art Exhibits: Regular exhibitions of religious artifacts.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.
15. Cusco's Museum of Colonial Art Library
A library focusing on colonial art and history with a collection of books.
- Colonial Art Resources: In-depth books, articles, and resources on colonial Andean art.
- Art Exhibits: Regular exhibitions of colonial artifacts.
- Access Restrictions: Some resources may have access restrictions due to their academic nature.