Set inside the tranquil Plaza de las Nazarenas, the Pre-Columbian Art Museum offers an intimate and beautifully curated journey through thousands of years of ancient Peruvian artistry. Housed inside Casa Cabrera, a historic colonial mansion built over an ancient Inca court, this understated cultural treasure displays over four hundred extraordinary artifacts curated in partnership with Lima's famous Larco Museum. You will wander through eleven dramatically lit exhibition rooms showcasing delicate wood carvings, intricate textiles, ceremonial seashells, and stunning gold and silver jewelry from civilizations that flourished long before the Inca Empire. Ancient cultures like the Moche, Nazca, Wari, and Chavín come to life through expressive pottery and vibrant offerings that reveal the rich spiritual depth of early Andean societies. Families visiting Cusco will appreciate the clean layout, informative bilingual signage, and peaceful courtyard setting away from busy streets. Children can easily spot whimsical animal motifs, mythical figures, and detailed metallic breastplates, making history engaging and accessible. Visiting this refined venue provides crucial cultural context for understanding the artistic skills and sacred traditions that shaped Peru before you set out to explore nearby archaeological ruins.
What to see at Pre-Columbian Art Museum
- Masterpieces from ancient Moche, Nazca, and Wari civilizations
- Exquisite gold, silver, shell, and ceramic craftsmanship
- Beautifully restored 16th-century Casa Cabrera courtyard
- Informative English and Spanish exhibition signage
- Dramatic artistic lighting that brings historical artifacts to life
Visiting tips
Visit in the late afternoon for quiet galleries and stay for coffee or dinner in the square.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Late afternoon
How to get there & what’s nearby
Pre-Columbian Art Museum is easy to reach on Cusco’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cusco travel guide.
See the full Cusco travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.