Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Huánuco
062 / POP 170,000 / ELEV 1894M
Huánuco lay on the important Inca route from Cuzco to Cajamarca, the key settlement in
the north of the empire, and developed as a major way station accordingly. The Incas
chose Huánuco Viejo, 150km west, as their regional stronghold but the exposed location
prompted the Spanish to move the city to its current scenic setting on the banks of the Río
Huallaga in 1541. Little is left of its colonial past but the profusion of archaeological re-
mains in the surrounding mountains is the main reason to linger in this busy little place.
Locals also boast Huánuco's perfect elevation gives it the best climate in Peru: indeed,
after the wild climes of the altiplano, it seems positively balmy. It certainly makes for a
convenient and tempting stopover on the Lima-Pucallpa jungle route. Nearby is one of
Peru's oldest Andean archaeological sites, the Temple of Kotosh (aka the Temple of the
Crossed Hands), while further up in the hills lie the still more impressive ancient ruins of
Huánuco Viejo and Tantamayo.
Sights
Sights in the city itself are thin on the ground: you might try seeing if
Iglesia San Fran-
pealing church with lavish baroque-style altars and interesting
escuela cuzqueña
paintings
- but don't hold your breath.
