This region is the ancient home of the Wari people, who lived here between 600 and 1000 AD. The Wari were a pre-Inca people known for their genius for urban planning and engineering.
Ayacucho is known as the “City of Churches.” Its most ancient temple was built in the year 1540. There are 33 temples, each one displaying important art such as pulpits crafted from painted wood, retablos, etc. The Cathedral of Ayacucho dates from 1612, and is an exquisitely decorated example of Baroque Renaissance style.