San Pedro Market
Cusco
San Pedro Market, located in the historic center of Cusco, Peru, is the city's principal and oldest traditional market. Established in the early 20th century, it was relocated in the 1910s to the San Pedro neighborhood for sanitary reasons. The market's structure, partially designed by French engineer Gustave Eiffel, is a notable example of neoclassical architecture featuring iron columns and a large corrugated roof. It houses over 1,180 stalls offering a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, Andean handicrafts, and traditional foods. Over time, the market evolved from a local supply hub into a vibrant tourist attraction, reflecting Cusco's cultural diversity and Andean traditions. Its layout is organized by product type, facilitating visitors' exploration. The market bustles with commercial activity both inside and in the surrounding streets, making it a central social and economic hub in Cusco.
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Tip: The best time to visit San Pedro Market is in the morning when vendors are most active and fresh products are abundant. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets for guided tours that provide cultural insights and explanations of traditional products. Bargaining is common, so be prepared to negotiate prices respectfully. Early arrival helps avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Discounts or special offers may be available through local tour operators. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the market's size and lively atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •The market's iron structure was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer famous for the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
- •San Pedro Market covers a large area with over 1,180 vendor stalls.
- •The market originally replaced the city's supply markets located in the Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Francisco for sanitary reasons.
- •Its neoclassical architectural style includes iron columns and a large corrugated roof imported from England.
- •The market has evolved from a local supply market to a popular tourist destination, reflecting Cusco's cultural heritage.
History
San Pedro Market was relocated in the late 1910s from Cusco's main squares to the San Pedro neighborhood to improve city hygiene.
Construction began in 1925, with the initial inauguration that year, but the market's full completion extended until 1950.
The iron structure was designed by Gustave Eiffel, marking it as a significant architectural work in Cusco.
After a damaging earthquake in 1950, the market was expanded in 1955 to accommodate the growing population.
Since then, it has remained the city's commercial core, fostering vibrant trade and community life around its premises.
Place Guide
Main Market Hall1925-1950
The central covered area features rows of iron columns supporting a spacious corrugated roof. It houses the majority of the 1,180 stalls selling fresh produce, meats, Andean textiles, and traditional foods.
Food Court AreaMid 20th century
A section dedicated to prepared traditional Andean and Peruvian foods, maintaining the market's original architectural style while offering visitors a taste of local cuisine.