Hatun Rumiyoq Street, Cusco

Hatun Rumiyoc Street in Cusco stands as a testament to the architectural skill of the ancient Inca civilization. This well-preserved, narrow cobbled pedestrian street once formed part of the route toward Antisuyu, one of the four regions of the Inca Empire, and features some of the finest surviving examples of Inca stonework. The street is best known for the Twelve-Angled Stone, located roughly halfway along it. This remarkable stone has twelve carefully shaped angles and fits seamlessly with the surrounding blocks without the use of mortar.

The historical importance of Hatun Rumiyoc Street is further highlighted by the surviving wall of the palace of Inca Roca, which extends along much of the street. The complex once served as a residence for Inca nobility before being taken over by the Spanish. The site later became the Archbishop's Palace and today houses Cusco's Religious Art Museum, which displays works associated with the Cusco School of painting.

The street offers a particularly visual experience at night, when artificial lighting emphasizes the texture and three-dimensional appearance of the ancient stone walls, creating excellent opportunities for photography. During the day, visitors may also encounter people dressed in traditional Inca-style clothing near the Twelve-Angled Stone, posing for photographs for a small fee.