San Pedro Market: Living History and Flavors of Cusco
Visiting the San Pedro Market is an experience you can’t miss if you’re in the city of Cusco. From the moment you walk through its doors, you’ll be amazed not only by its imposing architectural structure, but also by the variety of products it offers.
In this market, you can find everything from delicious traditional breakfasts to curious amulets or “magic potions” that are part of the local charm. Each aisle is full of color, aromas, and tradition, making this place a space where Cusco’s history and culture come together.
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History of the San Pedro Market
Before adopting its current name, the San Pedro Market was known as the Frisancho Market, in honor of Mayor Dr. Manuel Silvestre Frisancho. Its construction was made possible thanks to the joint efforts of the population in 1905, when the need arose for adequate infrastructure to supply the city.
At that time, the prefect of Cusco, Colonel Pedro José Carrión, held a competition to design the market. Two proposals were submitted: one by architect José Allio and the other by engineer Teodoro Elmore, with the latter winning. However, the project was suspended due to budget and space issues.
Years later, in 1919, work resumed under the direction of engineer Víctor Morgante, who drew up new plans. It is said that the mayor at the time managed to contact the renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel, whose construction company collaborated on the design, especially in the use of iron columns covered with cement, a detail that still distinguishes the market today.
Finally, on June 7, 1925, the market was officially inaugurated under the name Mercado Central de San Pedro. Its first administrator was Mr. Emilio Astete.
Evolution and Expansions
With the growth of Cusco’s population, the market was forced to expand. In 1955, the southern block was demolished in order to extend the building towards that sector. This expansion consolidated the San Pedro Market as the main commercial hub of Cusco’s historic center.
Architecture and Infrastructure
The San Pedro Market stands out for its unique and functional structure. Its large corrugated iron roof is supported by a set of harmoniously distributed columns, with approximately eight per passageway. The central columns are taller and more robust, while the side columns decrease in size and height, creating a sense of visual balance.
All the columns are covered in cement and painted yellow, giving the space a warm and traditional look. In addition, the staggered windows allow natural light to enter, making the interior always appear bright and welcoming.
Location and Useful Information
The San Pedro Market—formerly known as Frisancho—is located in the northeast part of Cusco’s Historic Center, between Santa Clara, Túpac Amaru, Qhasqaparo, Pasaje Micaela Bastidas, and Pasaje Geri streets.
It covers an area of approximately 7,500 square meters (150 meters long by 50 meters wide) and houses more than 1,100 stalls.
🕕 Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
📸 Best time to visit: between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., when there are fewer people and it is easier to take photographs.
Conclusión
You can’t miss the San Pedro Market, a place that combines history, architecture, and tradition in every corner. More than just a market, it’s a place where you can experience the essence of Cusco.
As you stroll through its aisles, you can enjoy its cuisine, meet its people, and take home unique souvenirs. Visiting the San Pedro Market is undoubtedly an unmissable experience for anyone who wants to discover the authentic heart of Cusco.
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