Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco
Experience the vibrant heritage of Andean textiles through live demonstrations, natural dyeing, and hands-on workshops. Support local artisans.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the full process
Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco
Best Time
See the full process

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant heritage of Andean textiles through live demonstrations, natural dyeing, and hands-on workshops. Support local artisans.
"An incredible experience learning about and appreciating the ancient art of Andean textiles."
Support Local Artisans
Purchasing directly from the CTTC ensures artisans receive fair compensation for their intricate work. :shopping_bags:
Ask About the Process
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Artisans are often happy to share insights into their craft and traditions. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Weaving Demonstrations
Watch skilled artisans transform alpaca wool into vibrant textiles using ancient techniques and natural dyes. A truly mesmerizing display of heritage.

Natural Dyeing Process
Discover how local plants are used to create a stunning spectrum of colors for alpaca wool, a testament to ancestral knowledge.

Handmade Textile Shopping
Acquire unique, high-quality scarves, blankets, and clothing directly from the weavers, supporting their craft and preserving tradition.

Backstrap Weaving Workshop
Engage hands-on with the art of backstrap weaving and create your own small textile piece to take home as a unique souvenir.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Authentic Textile Experiences
Chinchero's Weaving Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Support Local Artisans
Purchasing directly from the CTTC ensures artisans receive fair compensation for their intricate work. :shopping_bags:
Ask About the Process
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Artisans are often happy to share insights into their craft and traditions. :speech_balloon:
Natural Dyes Explained
Learn how plants like 'huarango' and 'cochinilla' create vibrant, natural colors. :rainbow:
Quality Over Price
While prices may be higher than market stalls, the quality and authenticity of CTTC textiles are exceptional. :dollar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Support Local Artisans
Purchasing directly from the CTTC ensures artisans receive fair compensation for their intricate work. :shopping_bags:
Ask About the Process
Don't hesitate to ask questions! Artisans are often happy to share insights into their craft and traditions. :speech_balloon:
Natural Dyes Explained
Learn how plants like 'huarango' and 'cochinilla' create vibrant, natural colors. :rainbow:
Quality Over Price
While prices may be higher than market stalls, the quality and authenticity of CTTC textiles are exceptional. :dollar:
Try a Weaving Class
Participate in a backstrap weaving workshop for a deeper appreciation of the skill involved. :handwithfingers_splayed:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco for its authentic demonstrations and high-quality, handmade textiles. While prices are higher than market alternatives, the value lies in supporting artisans and acquiring genuine pieces. The workshops are particularly highlighted as an enriching, hands-on experience.
"I read a book "Secrets of Spinning, Weaving, and Knitting in the Peruvian Highlands", which is available in many libraries in California, US. From this book I knew the textile center and decided to visit it once arrived in Cusco.
The live demo here is pretty interesting and the goods sold here are of high quality. Yes, it's more expensive than elsewhere and pay attention to the price tag as it's in US dollar, but you can still find something, for example, a 100% alpaca wool long scarf, with weaver's information, at $45, seems good to me; its feel is so soft and warm and the style is beautiful. You can clearly tell the difference between it and the things sold in the market at the other side of the street."
Purplexsu X
"We had a great time learning and practicing backstrap weaving! We were able to complete one bracelet and then learn a more challenging pattern. Katie was an excellent teacher and we loved this experience!"
Lauren McCarty
"Beautiful shop and museum, very detailed and insightful exhibition about Andean textiles! One of my favourite museums in Cusco, it's pretty short but very well organised, the shop is also nice, it's expensive but it's okay seen the nature of the work."
Matilde Verganti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The CTTC has two main locations: one in Cusco city center at Av. Sol 603, and another in Chinchero at Calle Manzanares. If you're visiting the Chinchero location, it's often part of tours to the Sacred Valley, or you can take a taxi or local bus from Cusco. Many visitors combine a visit with other Sacred Valley attractions.
Yes, Chinchero is accessible from Cusco. You can hire a taxi, join a guided tour, or take a local bus. The journey offers scenic views of the Andean landscape.
Many visitors find it convenient to visit the Chinchero location as part of a Sacred Valley tour. This allows you to see multiple sites in one day. Alternatively, you can arrange private transport.
Yes, you can take a taxi or a local bus from Cusco to Chinchero. Taxis offer more flexibility, while buses are a more budget-friendly option.
While the Cusco city center location is easily accessible, visiting the Chinchero site might require dedicated travel time. It's often best to focus on one location per day or plan a Sacred Valley itinerary that includes Chinchero.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the CTTC itself is generally free, especially for demonstrations. However, workshops and special classes will have associated fees. It's always a good idea to check their official website or inquire upon arrival for any specific entry requirements or costs.
The CTTC locations typically operate from around 9 AM to 5 PM. However, it's advisable to confirm the exact hours, especially for specific demonstrations or workshops, as they can vary.
The live weaving demonstrations are usually included with your visit and are free to observe. This is a key part of the experience that the CTTC offers to showcase their traditions.
Workshop prices can vary depending on the duration and complexity of the class. It's best to inquire directly with the CTTC for current pricing and availability.
Yes, the CTTC has shops where you can purchase authentic textiles. You can browse and buy items even if you don't participate in a demonstration or workshop.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Prices
The Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco (CTTC) is a highly recommended place to buy authentic, high-quality textiles directly from artisans. You can also find items near San Pedro Market, though quality can vary.
The textiles at CTTC are generally considered more expensive than those found in local markets. This reflects the high quality, natural materials, and the fair wages paid to the artisans.
Prices can range significantly. For example, a 100% alpaca wool scarf might cost around $45 USD, while more intricate pieces or garments can cost thousands of pesos.
Prices at the CTTC are generally fixed to ensure fair compensation for artisans. Haggling is not typically practiced here, unlike in some other markets.
You can find a wide variety of handmade items, including scarves, blankets, ponchos, bags, wall hangings, and traditional clothing, all made from alpaca and sheep wool.
🎫 🎨 Craftsmanship & Culture
The textiles are special because they are handmade using traditional techniques passed down through generations, natural dyes, and high-quality alpaca wool. Each piece tells a story of Andean culture.
Natural dyeing is a crucial part of the tradition, using plants, minerals, and insects to create vibrant colors without synthetic chemicals. It showcases ancestral knowledge of the local environment.
Absolutely! The CTTC offers live demonstrations where you can see the entire process, from washing the wool to spinning, dyeing, and weaving.
'Watay' is a traditional backstrap weaving technique that creates intricate patterns. The CTTC often showcases this method in their demonstrations and workshops.
The knowledge and skills of weaving are traditionally passed down from mother to daughter, preserving the techniques and cultural significance across generations.
🎫 👩🏫 Workshops & Experiences
Yes, the CTTC offers hands-on workshops where you can learn and practice backstrap weaving techniques. It's a highly recommended experience for a deeper understanding.
Workshops typically involve learning about the materials, natural dyes, and then practicing weaving techniques, often creating a small item like a bracelet or coaster.
Workshop durations can vary, with options for half-day or full-day experiences. The half-day workshops are popular for getting a good introduction to the craft.
The instructors are skilled artisans who are passionate about sharing their craft. They are known for being patient and clear in their teaching.
Many visitors find the weaving classes incredibly rewarding, providing a deeper appreciation for the time, skill, and artistry involved in creating traditional textiles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While extensive workshops might be challenging for very young children, the opportunity to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase a small, colorful textile can be a memorable takeaway. The educational aspect of seeing how things are made by hand can be a valuable lesson for kids. Look for simpler items in the shop that might appeal to them.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're looking for more affordable souvenirs, consider visiting the shops near San Pedro Market or other local markets in Cusco, but be aware that the authenticity and quality might vary. The CTTC is the place to go if you prioritize genuine craftsmanship and want to directly support the artisans, even if it means a smaller purchase or just enjoying the educational aspect.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Engaging in a backstrap weaving workshop is highly recommended for a hands-on understanding of the skill and artistry involved. The museum-like exhibition provides context and appreciation for the symbolism and history embedded in each piece. This is an opportunity to connect with the soul of Peruvian culture through its most vibrant artistic expression.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Natural Dyeing
The careful preparation and application of these natural dyes are crucial for achieving the desired hues and ensuring their longevity. The process often involves boiling the dyeing materials and then immersing the wool, allowing the colors to penetrate deeply. This meticulous approach ensures that each textile is not only visually stunning but also a testament to the enduring wisdom of indigenous cultures. The result is a collection of textiles that are as rich in history and natural beauty as the Andean landscapes they come from.
Understanding Backstrap Weaving
During demonstrations and workshops, you can observe how artisans skillfully manipulate the threads using their hands and a simple wooden shuttle to create intricate patterns. Techniques like 'Watay' are often showcased, where threads are tied and dyed before weaving to create complex designs. Participating in a workshop provides a hands-on experience, allowing you to feel the rhythm of the loom and gain a profound appreciation for the skill and patience required to produce these beautiful textiles.
This ancient technique is not just about creating fabric; it's a cultural practice deeply embedded in Andean identity. The patterns woven often carry symbolic meanings, representing elements of nature, cosmology, and community life. Learning about backstrap weaving at the CTTC offers a tangible connection to this rich heritage and the women who continue to keep this art form alive.
The Economic and Cultural Significance
When you purchase textiles from the CTTC, you're not just buying a souvenir; you're investing in the livelihoods of these artisans and contributing to the preservation of a living cultural tradition. The prices, while higher than mass-produced goods, reflect the true value of handmade items, the quality of natural materials, and the immense skill involved. This model ensures that the weavers are fairly compensated, fostering a sense of pride and continuity in their craft.
Furthermore, the CTTC serves as an educational hub, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history, symbolism, and techniques behind Andean textiles. This cultural exchange fosters greater understanding and appreciation for the art form, ensuring its relevance for future generations. It's a place where tradition meets contemporary appreciation, creating a sustainable future for this beautiful craft.
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