Two blocks from the Plaza de Armas, on Hatun Rumiyoc street, an Inca wall holds Cusco’s most famous stone: the twelve-angled stone, a block of diorite whose outline fits its neighbours without mortar. The same street climbs to the San Blas district, the artisans’ quarter, with its church, viewpoints over the rooftops and steep lanes. It is the best free walk in the centre, and here is how to do it.
The twelve-angled stone
It is part of the stone wall of the Archbishop’s Palace, which in Inca times was the residence of Inca Roca. It is a block of diorite cut with twelve angles, each fitting a neighbouring stone with no gaps, which is why it has become the symbol of the precision of Inca architecture. It is not the only stone with so many corners, but it is the best known, and it is protected as part of Peru’s National Cultural Heritage.
Do not touch it or lean on the wall. In March 2014 it was spray-painted, and the stain could not be fully removed.
How to get there: the walk from the Plaza de Armas
From the Plaza de Armas, take Calle Triunfo, beside the Cathedral, and keep straight on: at the next block the street becomes Hatun Rumiyoc and the stone is in the wall of the Archbishop’s Palace, usually with people taking photos. Carry on up the San Blas slope to the little square. It is about 430 metres, all uphill: on your first day, go slowly.
What to see in San Blas
- San Blas church. One of Cusco’s first parishes. Its highlight is the pulpit, carved from cedar wood in the Churrigueresque style and attributed to the indigenous sculptor Juan Tomás Tuyro Túpac. It is visited with the Religious Circuit ticket, the same as the Cathedral.
- The artisans’ workshops. The district keeps its craft tradition, with craft workshops and shops along its lanes.
- The viewpoints. The upper lanes of the district have the best views over the city’s rooftops.
- The Siete Borreguitos steps, painted and very photogenic, among the district’s steep lanes.
Combine it with the centre
The walk fits well into a morning with the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral and San Pedro Market, before the afternoon City Tour, as we suggest in 2 days in Cusco. If you enjoy photography, our photo session around the historic centre takes in the twelve-angled stone, San Blas and Siete Borreguitos. More places in things to do in Cusco.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the twelve-angled stone?
On Hatun Rumiyoc street, in Cusco’s historic centre, two blocks from the Plaza de Armas via Calle Triunfo. It is in the wall of the Archbishop’s Palace.
How much does it cost to see the twelve-angled stone?
Nothing. It is in the wall of a public street and can be seen at any time.
Why is the twelve-angled stone famous?
Because its twelve angles fit the surrounding stones without mortar or gaps, the best street-level example of how the Incas worked stone.
What are the twelve angles?
They are the twelve corners of its outline: at each one the edge of the block changes direction, and each side fits a neighbouring stone.
What happened to the twelve-angled stone in 2014?
On 8 March 2014 it was spray-painted in an act of vandalism, and the stain could not be fully removed. That is why visitors are asked not to touch it.
Do you have to pay to enter San Blas church?
Yes: it is visited with the Religious Circuit ticket, sold by the Archdiocese. The district, its lanes and viewpoints are free.
