LOCATION, EXTENSION AND POPULATION
The department of Apurimac is located in the south, bordering Cusco, Arequipa and Ayacucho. Its rugged geography places it among huge mountains and deep chasms, having succeeded in building up the winding roads through titanic efforts. Being located in the mountains, most of the year the climate is dominated by rain and low temperatures, but is recommended to travel between June and October.

It covers an area of 20.654 square kilometers and its population is around the 371 thousand inhabitants.

Its capital is Abancay, a city of spring weather, narrow streets, white houses with tin roofs and red tile.

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
Little is known of their origins, but the chroniclers relate that the first inhabitants of the various zones formed tribes that originated in the Quechua culture. In the region of Andahuaylas took his seat the legendary Chanca tribes set by his bellicosity has gone down in history as one of the most warlike people of ancient Peru and rebels.

The chroniclers who came to prepare the Chanca for years to conquer the city of Cusco and it had not been for the big picture and strategy of the Inca Pachacutec, the Inca Empire would have died.

When the conquerors established the first political organization of the colony, almost the entire length of the current department's jurisdiction was Huamanga authorities but not retained memories of the founding of cities and towns.

During the struggle for emancipation and independence, Apurimac contributed its best sons for this cause. One of them was Matthew Pumacahua who led a movement that spread to Andahuaylas. Micaela Bastidas Special mention who with her husband Jose Gabriel Condorcanqui-Tupac Amaru II-faced torture of Spanish oppression and gave his life for freedom.

At the beginning of the Republic, Abancay belonged to Cusco. On April 28, 1873, by law, establishing the Department of Apurimac based on the provinces of Andahuaylas (Ayacucho), Antabamba, Aymara, and Cotabambas (Cusco), placing Abancay as its capital.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF THE CAPITAL
Plaza de Armas , Cathedral, Chapel of the Lord of the Fall and parks and Micaela Bastidas Ocampo.

Archaeological Saywite Complex, located north of Abancay., Highlighting the existence of ancient cultural centers. Here you can see the famous stone Saywite, considered the "model of Tahantinsuyo" has four feet in diameter, almost circular, convex, with multiple carvings representing men, animals and plants grouped by natural regions.

Nevado Ampay, awesome natural wonder that rises at the foot of the city of Abancay.

Curahuasi valley which produces the best anise in the world . From here you can also appreciate the real magnitude Salcantay imposing snowy located in Cusco. You can also visit the thermal baths of Jónoc.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT
Andahuaylas. The department's most modern city is built on 2 thousand 980 meters above sea level and has a slightly cold climate. The main church is the Cathedral of St. Peter and was built on colonial architecture. In its main square stands the fountain built of a single stone.

Talavera de la Reyna  4 kilometers from the city of Andahuaylas.  Here stands the Plaza de Armas, built a stone base and where stands an impressive tower with a clock. Nearby you can visit the thermal baths of Hualalache.

Chalhuanca, capital of the province of Aymaraes located about 2 thousand 800 meters preserves beautiful churches built in the colonial era with fine wood carvings and gold leaf.

Antabamba, important archaeological site burial caves abound. Skulls have been found there trepanados with astounding perfection in medicine, also clay sculptures, weapons, domestic utensils and hunting tools.

Pacucha Lagoon, considered one of the most beautiful and extensive country, stands about 3 thousand meters above sea level. It is located between the road and Abancay Andahuaylas. Ideal place to relax and enjoy the nature. You can also fish and hunt ducks.

Chincheros.  district full of beauty and color, located in the province of Andahuaylas.

TYPICAL DISHES AND BEVERAGES
The inhabitants of Apurimac is characterized by good food and hospitality toward those who requested. o not surprised to see permanently give us food, mainly a variety of homemade breads that are prepared on the basis of flour that they produce.

One of its most typical dishes is the Huatia, which dates from ancient times. It consists in preparing a campfire surrounded by stones inside which are placed to make cooking potatoes. The ancient inhabitants were preparing for the planting season or harvest.

Also from this department is the familiar dish of potatoes and eggs with "uchullachua" (chili with cheese and huacatay).  Among the variety of breads are grids, Tarapaca, plates and screws.

Are recommended for drinking chicha and strikeouts.