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Kiswar Kancha is a Quechua expression that can be translated as “place of the kiswares,” referring to the kiswar, a native shrub of the Andes. According to some historical sources, this ancient Inca palace may have belonged to the Inca Wiracocha and may have served as the residence of his panaca or lineage.
It is believed that the palace had a quadrangular layout and was composed of buildings, courtyards, and interior spaces. After the Spanish conquest, the ancient complex was granted to Alonso de Meza and, later, part of the area was occupied by colonial religious buildings.
On the southern side of the ancient complex, the Suntur Wasi may have been located, a structure associated with ceremonial functions and the safeguarding of emblems or weapons.
The ancient Kiswar Kancha was located on the northeastern side of the current Main Square of Cusco, in the area where the Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of the Holy Family, also known as the Church of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, stand today.
Today, on the site once occupied by the ancient Kiswar Kancha, visitors can see the Basilica Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of the Holy Family, two of the main religious monuments in the historic center.
No visible remains of the ancient palace are preserved today as an independent attraction; however, its history helps visitors understand the transformation of ancient Inca Cusco into a colonial city.
The ancient Kiswar Kancha does not have its own opening hours, as there are no visible remains open to the public as an independent attraction. To visit the Cathedral of Cusco or the Church of the Holy Family, it is recommended to check the current opening hours and rates of the cathedral complex before your visit.
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