Normally, you need a ticket to the other sites to gain admission to the museum. I had tickets from previous trips but not for that day. In conversation with the attendant, she asked my age. There are many benefits to being 65.

Excellent introduction to pre-Incan civilisations, their development and their amalgamation under the Incas. It also gives some idea of their coalescence and subsequent subjugation by the Spanish colonisers. Finally, one is introduced to the mixed heritage heroes that ultimately led to the establishment of the Peruvian state in 1821. Some good displays and fine paintings. Unfortunately no photography in the exhibit areas in the museum. Part of the historical/cultural ticket. Well worth seeing, particularly in combination with the cathedral.