population: 0.64 million

extension: 43,814 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Ayacucho, Peru and interested in visiting museums, I would recommend visiting the National University of San Cristobal de Huamanga Museum, which showcases a variety of archaeological and historical artifacts from the region. Additionally, you may want to check out the Museum of Popular Art, where you can see traditional Peruvian crafts and textiles. If you're looking for other museums in the area, the Regional Museum of Ayacucho and the Museum of Vicente Camacho Herrera are also worth considering.

Food

Ayacucho is famous for its rich culinary heritage, and some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people are:

1. Pachamanca - a traditional dish made by cooking meat, potatoes, and Andean grains in an underground oven.

2. Cuy al horno - roasted guinea pig, which is a delicacy in the region.

3. Anticuchos - skewered beef hearts marinated in spices and grilled over charcoal.

4. Mondongo - a hearty soup made with tripe and vegetables.

5. Huatia - a dish made by cooking meat, potatoes, and corn on hot stones or in an earthen oven.

6. Chicharrón de chancho - crispy deep-fried pork belly usually served with boiled potatoes and salsa criolla.

7. Adobo - a spicy stew made with pork, chili peppers, and other ingredients.

8. Api con pastel - a sweet drink made from purple corn and served with a pastry filled with cheese or jam.

9. Picarones - a type of doughnut made from sweet potato and pumpkin, served with a syrup made from molasses and spices.

These dishes are just a few examples of Ayacucho's diverse and delicious cuisine, which blends indigenous and Spanish influences in unique ways.

Activities

If you're looking for fun activities that locals enjoy in Ayacucho, here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Wari ruins: The ancient Wari culture left behind impressive archaeological sites just outside of Ayacucho that are popular among both tourists and local residents.

2. Attend a festival or celebration: Ayacucho is known as the "Capital of Folk Art and Crafts" in Peru, and the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebration.

3. Explore the city's colonial architecture: Ayacucho boasts a well-preserved historic downtown area with beautiful colonial-era buildings, churches, and plazas.

4. Sample local cuisine: Ayacucho is known for its delicious traditional dishes, such as pachamanca (a meat and vegetable dish cooked in an underground pit), huatia (slow-cooked meats and vegetables), and picante de cuy (spicy guinea pig stew).

5. Take a guided tour: There are many local tour guides in Ayacucho who can show you around the city and surrounding area, offering insights into the region's history, culture, and natural beauty.