Number 7 in the streets of Cusco

The number 7 is sacred to many of the larger ancient cultures that existed and in many cases a number that has caused a kind of veneration; the Pythagoreans believe in 7 celestial bodies that emit a controlled vibration that governs and governs the world. These originated 7 days a week. This number is also related to the rainbow, one of the most important natural events for the Inca civilization worldview, and that “casually” are the colors of the flag of the City of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas.

But there are many numbers 7 since the beginning of history; are 7 capital sins, 7 church sacraments, 7 musical notes, 7 the wonders of the ancient world, 7 the wonders of the modern world; one of them is Machu Picchu and is located in Cusco, a city that has 7 streets whose names begin with the number 7.

Seven Streets in Cusco with names beginning with number 7

In the city of Cusco there are seven streets with names that start with the number 7; some believe that the number has a cabalistic character that came with the colony; however, other studies show that the use of this number began before the time of the Incas. The ancient Peruvians and many other cultures of the world were convinced that the stars had a decisive influence on the life and conduct of human beings. The book “Touristic Routes of Cusco” by Armando Valenzuela Lovón, indicates that: “7 is a metaphysical and inexplicable number in the Andean culture, as in many other important cultures of the world.“

The seven streets starting with a seven and their meaning:

Seven Masks

It is a quiet passage located between Almudena and the parish of Santiago. It is said that in this street lived Don Mascareñas, a Spaniard with six children, who helped him in the task of melting pieces of bronze that were placed in the doors of the churches and where they are conserved until the present time. The weather has caused this street to deteriorate; although it still retains the essence of its history.

Seven Windows

This street is the continuation of Ruinas Street; it is known that before the destruction of the San Agustín Temple; behind it was a residence that had 4 large windows and 3 small ones; although the buildings of the present day do not match the number of windows of the name of the street.

Seven Cuartones

Its name is given by 7 stone beams that form scantlings aligned on the old bed of the Saphy river; at present it passes below the Av. El Sol in Cusco. At the present time of the 7 spars that existed in this place, one can only appreciate the one that remains on Saphy Street; the others were lost with the advance of the new city.

Seven little devils

It is the street where people of old fell in love; they say that the lovers were tempted by the devil and that many women returned from this street with their “Sunday 7” (pregnant); these stories gave rise to the name. At present, the immense amount of people who visit the Historic Center of Cusco, has made the street lose the charm for couples who want a romantic moment.

Seven Little Angels

As most things have to go in balance; we have the street called Siete Angelitos, is to the right of the street Carmen Alto. On the roof of an old house you can see the figures of 7 little angels who were painted by the order Blas de Bobadilla, who was the former owner of this house; but there are also other figures worthy of being seen, nevertheless these 7 angels would steal your attention.

Seven Snakes

It is one of the most beautiful streets of Cusco and its name, since the time of the Incas, refers to these small animals; is located in the Plazoleta Nazarenas. The Inca stone walls carry 7 pairs of snakes carved in high relief. At present you can find the snakes, which cause you to look at them closely and a lot of patience.

Seven Borreguitos

The name refers to people passing by this steep street with cattle and beasts of burden. Nowadays, the growth and modernity of the city have made it called Calle Palacios, since it was remodeled to improve the transit through the place. Even now from time to time, you can see some people in typical costumes walking with some flames and little lambs, in search of their attention.

If you take any of the little calles (streets) to the north of Plaza de Armas you´ll find yourself going up! Steps, steps, steps! But trust me it’s worth it especially if you take the ancient Incan road, Hathunrumiyoc (Quechua for “great stone street”) towards San Blas. Don’t just walk down this street though, take it in! You will be surrounded by ancient Incan history. You will see the famous 12-angled stone, set into one of the best-surviving walls in Cusco. This is definitely one of the most beautiful streets in Cusco. As you come to the end of the street and before you start to ascend the steps of Cuesta de San Blas.

You’ll then reach the tiny Iglesia San Blas famed for its intricate pulpit. The church was built in 1544 over the old Incan Temple dedicated to Illapa, the god of thunder and lightning. It is the oldest parish church in Cusco. If you’re thirsty after the walk up you´ll have a choice of bars and a plethora of cafés to pick from.

San Blas is filled with adoreable, alternative coffee shops, restaurants, bars and absolutely lovely stores. There is a really nice bar called Limbus. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view over Cusco, while having a drink.

KM0 is up the hill to the left side of the church. It has live music most nights of the week and a good food menu. Even if you don’t like fancy eating or drinking it´s enjoyable just to wander the quaint streets and just take it all in. Around the side of the chapel there are benches, some grass and a waterfall that make it a perfect spot to sit and people watch.

In San Blas are many little museums, which are free and definitely worth a visit. For example a coca museum or The Hilario Mendivil museum, which is filled with amazing pieces of art. The museums are super cute and little. I enjoyed it a lot. The lady workin at the museum was really sweet, her english was great and she explained me a lot about the art in the museum. It was really interesting to learn what those pieces of art are representing. So for example the long throats the figures have stand for llamas and alpacas. Also when the ladies carry kids on their back, wrapped up in a blanket or have fruits with them then this is a representation of mother earth (Pachamama).

The Mendivil family are a famous family, who live in the San Blas barrio. They are well known for their sculptures of religious icons. Hilario Medivil (1929-77), San Blas´s most famous artist, is most known for his religious sculptures depicting long necks. There is a small gallery in this area with this religious art on show and also a shop selling Mendivil style work.

You will find very beautiful accessoires here, which are handmade and have a reasonable price. For me it is a very special atmosphere it seems much less touristic and quieter even tho there are many tourists. I think, because San Blas has many little, winding streets it is cuter and mystical compared for example to the main square, which is one huge place.

Also there is a little local market, where they sell food for a reasonable price and local markets in general are always fun to experience.

San Blas offers many hostels and hotels for different types of budgets. Hidden away up here you´ll find somewhere to rest your head after a day of walking the streets of Cusco or trekking to Machu Picchu. But do be weary, the further you go up the sketchier it gets!

If you are in Cusco this is definitely a must-see I love it everytime I go it is really a wonderful quarter to wander around!