The Casa de los Cuatro Bustos is one of the most representative colonial mansions in the historic center of Cusco. Its architecture combines viceregal elements with walls of Inca origin, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s historical layering.
Table of Contents
During the Inca period, the area where the Casa de los Cuatro Bustos now stands may have formed part of the ceremonial setting linked to the Qorikancha and the ancient Plaza del Sol, known as Intipampa. After the arrival of the Spanish, the most important plots of land in Cusco were occupied by conquistadors and colonial authorities.
According to some historical accounts, the plot was taken by Gonzalo Pizarro, brother of Francisco Pizarro. Later, the property passed into the hands of Juan de Salas y Valdés, who ordered the four busts that give the mansion its name to be carved on the main doorway.
The busts represent Juan de Salas y Valdés, his wife Usenda de Bazán, his eldest son Fernando de Valdés Bazán, and his daughter-in-law Leonor de Tordoya y Palomino. These Renaissance-style sculptures were created in the early years of the 17th century and are located on the lintel of the main entrance.
The doorway is decorated with rosettes, relief columns, a noble coat of arms, and a lintel carved from a single stone piece. Today, the building is part of Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco, and preserves architectural elements of great historical value.
It is located at 400 San Agustín Street, in the historic center of Cusco, just a few minutes on foot from the Main Square.
From the outside, visitors can appreciate its colonial doorway, where the four carved busts, the noble coat of arms, and the ornamental details of the façade stand out. Inside, the mansion preserves patios with stone arches and architectural elements that reflect the union between Inca tradition and viceregal architecture.
As it is part of a functioning hotel, access to its interior spaces may be subject to the establishment’s policies. It is recommended to contact Palacio del Inka directly before your visit.
Happy passengers