Museo Machu Picchu Casa Concha

★★★★★ 4.4/5 (4,449 reviews) Very Good

About This Museum

You probably think you need to hike the Inca Trail to get face-to-face with Machu Picchu's artifacts, but right here in the heart of Cusco, tucked away on a cobblestone street, is where the real treasures ended up. Stepping into the Museo Machu Picchu Casa Concha feels like walking into a secret; it’s a stunning colonial mansion built upon ancient Inca foundations, its stone walls holding centuries of stories. The star of the show is the breathtaking collection of over 360 pieces repatriated from Yale University, including intricate ceramics, haunting human remains, and dazzling metalwork that Hiram Bingham himself originally excavated. Don't just glance at the objects—the detailed photos and videos from recent excavations pull you right into the archaeologist's trench, making the distant past feel immediate and thrilling.

Collection Highlights

The real heart-stopper is seeing the original metal clips, called 'tupus,' used to fasten aristocratic clothing, resting just feet away from skeletal remains found on the mountain. The wall of excavation photography is equally compelling, telling the complete story of how these items were discovered and what they reveal about Inca life.

Visitor Information

It's surprisingly easy to find on Santa Catalina Ancha street, a peaceful escape from the more crowded plazas. A single ticket gets you access, and it's well worth an hour or two of your time to see these pieces in their true home city.

Architecture & Building

A beautiful example of a Cusco colonial house, with a grand central courtyard, heavy wooden doors, and soaring arched corridors. The most fascinating part is knowing that its robust stone foundations are original Inca masonry, seamlessly incorporated by Spanish builders.