Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a city rich in history and culture and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. In addition to the famous archaeological sites and colonial monuments, Cusco also offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The White Christ is a piece of art that crowns one of the best observation spaces that allow you to admire the overwhelming beauty of the city of Cusco from the heights of its magnificent mountains. Do you know this viewpoint? Here we tell you everything you need to know to visit the White Christ of Cusco.
The White Christ is the most famous monument in the city of Cusco. It is a statue of Jesus Christ that reaches 8 meters in height and raises his arms as a sign of protection at the top of the city. It is located next to the Sacsayhuaman fortress. Entry to this monument is free. Most people prefer to go there with the famous 'mirabus' route.
The White Christ
The White Christ is a sculpture of Jesus Christ located on the Pukamoqo hill (red hill), a place considered sacred by the Incas.
The sculpture was a gift from the Arab-Palestinian colony in 1945. The work was crafted by the Cusco sculptor Francisco Olazo. The materials used were granite, cedar, clay as well as iron and wire.
The sculpture is white and measures up to 8 meters. His open arms represent Catholic protection over the city of Cusco.
The laying of the first stone took place during the Inti Raymi festival (Festival of the Sun) in 1944. Subsequently, in 1973 and 1974, the meshing of the statue was carried out.
Currently it is one of the most visited modern monuments in Cusco. The main reason is that from there you have a privileged view of the entire city.
Location
The White Christ monument is located just 2 kilometers on foot from the city of Cusco, a few steps from the entrance gate to the archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman.
Geographically it is located at 3,575 meters above sea level.
The Cristo Blanco viewpoint
The Cristo Blanco is one of the most impressive viewpoints in the city of Cusco in Peru. From here you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to feel part of the magic of the land of the Incas and get the best photographs of the Andean landscape.
The statue of the White Christ is located at the top of Pukamoqo Hill, which means "Red Hill" in Quechua. It was erected in 1945 by the Palestinian community of Cusco as a gift to the city. The statue is 8.5 meters high and is made of reinforced concrete. It is said that the statue was inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with which it bears many similarities.
To get to the Cristo Blanco viewpoint you have to climb a steep hill, but the effort is worth it. From there the landscape is simply wonderful and you can see both the city, the valley and its mountains. Additionally, you can see the famous Sacsayhuamán fortress and the Apu (mountain) Ausangate, one of the highest peaks in the Andes Mountains in Peru.
Cristo Blanco is a very popular place among photography lovers, thanks to the infinite possibilities offered by the surrounding landscape. Many people choose to go up to the viewpoint to see the sunset and take spectacular photos of the sunset over the city of Cusco. In addition, it is common to see couples taking romantic selfies, families capturing an unforgettable moment or groups of travelers from anywhere in the world immortalizing their time in the capital of the Inca Empire.
It is important to keep in mind that due to the altitude, the weather in Cristo Blanco can be cold and windy. Therefore, it is recommended to wear warm, comfortable clothing, as well as appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
In addition to being an impressive viewpoint, the Cristo Blanco is also an important place for the Cusco Christian community. During Holy Week, religious ceremonies are held in this place, where the statue of the White Christ is decorated with flowers and candles.
How to get?
From the center of Cusco you can reach Cristo Blanco on foot, by taxi or by public transport bus:
On foot – From the Plaza de Armas you must ascend in a straight line towards the San Blas neighborhood. Then you must take the streets 'Siete angelitos' or 'Atoqsayk'uchi' until you reach the main track (Circunvalación road). Finally, you must walk along the track until you reach Cristo Blanco. The journey takes 40 minutes on average.
By taxi – From anywhere in the center of Cusco you can take a taxi that will take you to Cristo Blanco following the Circunvalación highway or Dos Bosco avenue. The trip takes approximately 15 minutes. The price of the service is negotiated with the taxi driver himself but can cost approximately 2 or 3 dollars.
By public transport bus - At the 'Mercado Rosaspata' bus stop, buses from the companies 'Señor del Huerto' or 'Cristo Blanco' arrive, which will take you to the monument in approximately 30 minutes. The buses follow the Circunvalación road. The price of the service is 1 Peruvian sol (0.3 dollars).
Other viewpoints in Cusco
San Cristobal Viewpoint
The Mirador de San Cristóbal is located on the hill overlooking the city of Cusco. It can be accessed by car or on foot, and the views it offers are a delight for nature lovers. From there you can also see the entire city, including the historic center, the Sacsayhuamán Fortress, and the surrounding mountains. In addition, there is a beautiful monument to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and several stalls selling crafts.
Viewpoint of the Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the historic center of Cusco and is the perfect place to admire the colonial architecture of the city. From the viewpoint of the Plaza de Armas, you can see the majestic cathedral of Cusco, the church of La Compañía, and the Archbishop's Palace. In addition, it is the ideal place to observe and participate in the bustle of daily life in the square, with street vendors and tourists enjoying the atmosphere, warming themselves in the sun and taking photos in front of the pool that adorns the center of the square.
San Blas Viewpoint
The San Blas neighborhood is one of the oldest and most picturesque in Cusco and is home to many local artists and craftsmen. The Mirador de San Blas is located at the top of the hill overlooking the neighborhood, and offers very beautiful views of the historic center and the surrounding area. From there, you can see the church of San Blas, with its perfect baroque façade, and the picturesque artisan market.
Tambomachay Viewpoint
Tambomachay is an archaeological site located a few kilometers north of Cusco. It is known for its perfectly preserved water sources and is an important place in the history of the Inca culture. From the Tambomachay viewpoint, you can see the entire Cusco valley, with its green hills and agricultural terraces. It is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic or simply relax and feel the wind rushing by.
As you can see, there are several observation points and viewpoints in the city of Cusco and in nearby towns.
The White Christ is one of them and getting to it is very simple. It is the symbol of the union between very different communities and proof of the fusion of cultures, ideas and religions. Visit the White Christ of Cusco on top of the Pukamoqo hill and enjoy the wonderful view of the city and the Peruvian Andes mountains. Take the best photos of your trip and see other nearby viewpoints. The experience of being part of the beauty of the mountains is a gift from Pachamama that will remain in your memory forever.
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