San Pedro Market History:

Until the beginning of the 20th century, and since colonial times, the merchants who would later occupy the new market of San Pedro de Cusco were located on the esplanade where today the small square of San Francisco and the Plaza de Armas of Cusco itself are located. At that time, where the current market is located, there was an old slaughterhouse and orchards belonging to the Beaterio de Santa Clara.

In 1925, the current San Pedro Market was founded and built during the administration of Mayor Manuel Silvestre y Frisancho. It was built by the same architect who designed the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, Gustave Eiffel.

In 1950, the market was enlarged due to the growth of the population in the area, finally achieving the structure that we can appreciate to this day.

The architecture of San Pedro Market

The architecture is simple and functional and is classified as neoclassical. To overcome the problem of the slope, the ground was levelled with a lower structure that houses the public toilets and some shops. The building has a total of 7 entrances leading to a large rectangular space enclosed by a concrete structure and metal bars that allow plenty of light. Inside, all the shops are distributed under a high gabled roof with a metal structure on three levels. These are supported by simple columns, giving the building a spacious appearance and providing much-needed ventilation.

Eat Safely at San Pedro Market

Eating at the San Pedro Market is an adventure. Corinne, the owner of Curious Monkey food tours, shared some excellent tips to enjoy the market safely:

Acclimatize First: Avoid eating at the market on your first or second day in Cusco or before any hiking. Your stomach needs time to adjust to the altitude and local food.

Choose Cooked Foods: Stick to soup, roasted, fried, and well-done meats to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Avoid Raw Items: Stay away from ceviche and raw items like vegetables and salads. Raw foods can carry bacteria and parasites that are unfamiliar to your system.

Peel Fruits and Vegetables: To ensure safety, only eat fruits and vegetables that can be peeled. This reduces exposure to any potential contaminants.

Try Traditional Bread: Sample the Pan Chuta in the bread aisle. This bread dates back to Inca times and is cooked in a wooden oven every morning, offering a taste of history.

Fresh Juices: Enjoy a fresh juice, but make sure it is freshly extracted with no ice or water added. This minimizes the risk of consuming contaminated water.

Additional Tips for Visiting San Pedro Market

Timing: Visit the market in the morning when the food is freshest and the market is less crowded.

Hygiene: Observe the hygiene practices of the vendors. Choose stalls that look clean and have vendors wearing gloves or using utensils to handle food.

Stay Hydrated: Bring your own bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially due to the high altitude of Cusco.

Explore Beyond Food: The market offers more than just food. Check out the sections selling traditional textiles, souvenirs, and handicrafts for a complete cultural experience.

Respect Local Customs: Be respectful when taking photos of people, and ask for permission if necessary. Many locals appreciate the courtesy.

Keep Small Bills: Vendors often prefer small bills and exact change. This makes transactions smoother and faster.

Watch Your Belongings: Like any busy market, San Pedro can attract pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying too much cash or valuables.

Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in Spanish can enhance your experience and interactions with local vendors.

Sample Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on trying local treats such as tamales, empanadas, and churros. These items are typically safe and delicious.

Understand Portion Sizes: Portions in Peru can be quite large. If you’re unsure, start with a smaller portion or share with a travel companion.

Observe the Locals: Notice where the locals eat. Stalls with a steady stream of local customers are likely to offer safer and tastier food options.

Pack Hand Sanitizer: Use hand sanitizer before eating, especially if you’ve been handling money or touching surfaces.

Cultural Insights and Safety Tips

Market Layout: San Pedro Market is divided into sections, each specializing in different products like fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Familiarize yourself with the layout to make your visit more efficient.

Cultural Etiquette: Greet vendors with a friendly “Buenos días” (Good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (Good afternoon). Politeness goes a long way in any culture.

Sustainable Practices: Bring a reusable shopping bag to carry your purchases. This helps reduce plastic waste and supports the market’s sustainability efforts.

Health Considerations: If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, communicate them clearly. It’s helpful to know the Spanish terms for your allergies.

San Pedro Market offers a vibrant glimpse into the daily life of Cusco residents. By following these tips, you can safely enjoy the diverse culinary offerings and rich cultural experiences this market has to offer.