The White Christ, the protector of Cusco

History of the White Christ

The white Christ is a beautiful white statue located on the Pukamoqo hill, donated by the Palestinian Arabs who migrated to this part of Peru as a refuge after the Second World War. The appearance of the effigy is very similar to the Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, like this with his arms outstretched in the air. This is a much smaller version but it also retains its own charm.

Also, according to Inca legends, it is known that the "Puka Moqo" hill, where the statue is located, was a place dedicated to spirituality. This urban myth refers to the ground that you step on when you arrive at this tourist attraction, contains samples of the four suyos of the Inca Empire, we are talking about the Tahuantinsuyo.

The amazing statue of the White Christ was made by the famous Cusco artist Francisco Olazo Allende. He had the important help of craftspeople from the traditional San Blas neighborhood. The first stone was placed on June 24, 1944. This was the same day as the first celebration of Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). Thanks to the hard work of the artist and the people of Cusco, the big sculpture was finished and delivered in 1945.

This famous figure is 8 meters tall and bright white. It is made with a metal frame covered in granite, marble, and plaster. It shows Jesus Christ with his arms open. This is a symbolic gesture of welcome and protection for the city of Cusco. For local people, the White Christ is much more than a piece of art: it represents peace, blessing, and divine protection for the Catholic community in the area. This fantastic tourist destination is a must stop for tourists arriving for the first time in Cusco, there is no entrance fee and being on a high site, it is considered a strategic viewpoint.

Where is the White Christ located?

The Cristo Blanco 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.

Statue of Jesus Christ in Cusco

About 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 worked by the sculptor Francisco Olazo from Cusco. 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 the Catholic protection over the city of Cusco.
• The laying of the first stone was carried out during the festivity of Inti Raymi (Fiesta del Sol) in 1944. Subsequently, in 1973 and 1974 the statue was enmeshed.
• It is currently 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.

How to get to the White Christ?

From the center of the city of Cusco, we can choose to reach the White Christ in 3 ways:

• On foot – From the Plaza de Armas you must go up 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 road (Circunvalación road). Finally, you must walk along the track until you reach the White Christ. The journey takes 40 minutes on average.
• By taxi – The trip takes approximately 15 minutes. The price of the service is approximately 15 soles from the city center.
• By public transport bus – At the location of the "Mercado Rosaspata" the buses of 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 highway. The price of the service is 1 sun.

What can we visit nearby?

Sacsayhuaman

The Sacsayhuaman Fortress or “Saqsaywaman” is an Inca archaeological site whose construction dates back to the 15th century. It is one of the most incredible Inca empire buildings in the world. This Inca architectural achievement represents a magnificent building since it is the most extensive ceremonial center built by the Incas during their empire.

Qenqo

Qenqo is the name of the Inca archaeological center located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco. This archaeological site is famous for its underground tunnels. According to history, it is said that Qenqo was an Inca site where religious ceremonies were held. In addition, it is also known as the forest of Qenqo.

Pucapucara

Puca Pucara is an old Inca military construction located in the city of Cusco. This fortress is made up of large walls, terraces and stairways. In Puca Pucara you will be able to appreciate different constructions, among them are: squares, enclosures, bathrooms, terraces. The constructions of this complex are characterized by being made of limestone.

Tambomachay

Tambomachay, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the city of Cusco. Formerly, this place was known as the "Inca spa". The main function of this archaeological complex was to provide water to the nearby archaeological sites and also served as a resting place for the Inca ruler, right there is the main waterfall known as "the baths of the Inca", which until today its waters flow completely normal.

More information

• The entrance to the White Christ is free. The entrance to Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay are included in the 'Cusco Tourist Ticket' which costs 70 Peruvian soles (approximately 22 dollars).
• The chronicles say that the Pukamoqo hill, the site where the White Christ is located, was a sacred site. It is said that the Incas transported land from the four 'suyos' (regions of the empire) there. This, and the excellent location with panoramic views of the city, influenced the decision to place the statue there.
• The White Christ is open to the public every day of the year and at all times. It is recommended to visit it at sunset, when the lights dimly illuminate the city of Cusco. At that time you can take amazing photos of the city.
• The White Christ is undoubtedly one of the most famous monuments in Cusco, it is a statue of a Jesus Christ almost 80 meters high that rests very close to Sacsayhuaman and that is one of the favorite places among tourists to visit and take some nice pictures or simply be able to appreciate Cusco from this beautiful viewpoint.

White Christ Cusco

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