adds a new award highlighting its invaluable tourist and cultural value. The imperial city's historic center received Hierarchy 4, Peru's highest tourism distinction, granted by the
in recognition of its exceptional value, authenticity, and international significance.
Mincetur reported that this distinction, formalized through Deputy-Ministerial Resolution No. 0059-2025-MINCETUR/VMT, consolidates Cusco as one of the world's leading tourist destinations.
Likewise, it raises to 12 the number of national sites that hold the highest hierarchy awarded by the government agency.
On the occasion, the Cabinet member stressed that the Historic Center "reflects the strength of our history and the essence of Peru before the world."
"The greatness of Cusco's Historic Center not only represents the essence of Peru, but also the strength of our history," Minister Mera stated.
"This classification serves as a roadmap for continuing to preserve and enhance Cusco's cultural and tourist value, within the framework of the tourism diversification efforts promoted by the sector," she added.
Last September, the regional government reported that it had completed the procedures for the Andean city's Historic Center to receive the Hierarchy 4 distinction —the highest tourism recognition granted by Mincetur to tourist attractions of national importance capable of drawing a significant flow of visitors.
Cusco Province Municipality's Tourism, Culture, Education, and Sports Manager Victor Paz reported that after a year of work and procedures carried out by a technical team from this office, the Archaeological Capital of Peru and of the Tahuantinsuyo has received this award, which adds to the many honors the city already holds.
He stated that Cusco's exceptional value in archaeology, monuments, history, culture, and heritage legacy is reflected in 57 aspects, in addition to research publications, awards, as well as the tourist flow that visits and admires it.
Investment and tourism promotion projects
Minister Mera announced that, following this recognition, Mincetur will prioritize sustainable investment and tourism promotion projects aimed at strengthening the Historic Center's management.
Likewise, she reported that Hierarchy 4 status is being considered for the San Pedro Apostol Church of Andahuaylillas and the Sacsayhuaman National Archaeological Park.
Mincetur indicated that the evaluation process —which began at the request of Cusco Region Government— was conducted by the ministry, which conducted a technical review based on criteria of uniqueness, conservation, tourist influx, and symbolic value.
The study also outlined priority actions to strengthen the Historic Center's management, such as improving security, cleanliness, and mobility, as well as ensuring compliance with the Master Plan and heritage conservation regulations.
Universal value heritage
The Historic Center of Cusco is one of the most impressive and valuable urban complexes in Latin America.
It was declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 1972 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its exceptional blend of Inca and colonial architecture, symbolizing Peru's mestizaje (cultural blending).