Cusco: Experience the magic of Inti Raymi, the Feast of the Sun
Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, comes alive every June with the celebration of Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun. This event, which pays homage to the solar deity, is one of Peru’s most vibrant and exciting festivities. Between colorful parades, ancestral rituals and traditional dances, Cusco becomes an unforgettable setting where history and culture intertwine to surprise visitors.
When to enjoy Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi is celebrated every year on June 24, marking the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, a date of great importance for the ancient Incas. This is the ideal time to visit Cusco, as the city also commemorates its anniversary in June, offering a cultural agenda full of activities and events for all tastes.
A look at the history of Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi was the most important ritual of the Inca Empire, established by the Inca Pachacutec to pay tribute to the Sun God and ask for prosperity for the coming year. Forbidden during the Spanish conquest, the festival was recovered in 1944 and since then it has been celebrated every June, attracting thousands of visitors. The main ceremony takes place in Sacsayhuaman, an impressive archaeological complex that provides the perfect setting for this ancestral event.
Main attractions of the Inti Raymi and Cusco
1. The beginning at the Qoricancha:
The festivity begins at the ancient Temple of the Sun, where actors dressed as the Inca and the Coya (his wife) perform the salute to Inti, recreating the original rituals.
2. The journey to Sacsayhuaman:
A procession led by the Inca advances through the streets of Cusco, followed by hundreds of people in traditional costumes representing the different regions of the ancient empire.
3. The ceremony at Sacsayhuaman:
This impressive archaeological site is the epicenter of the Inti Raymi. The re-enactment includes songs, dances and the symbolism of the sacrifice of a llama (now symbolically represented) to thank the Sun.
4. Explore Cusco during June:
Take advantage of your visit to get to know other icons of the city, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and the San Pedro market. Cusco vibrates with music, art and a spectacular gastronomic offer during this month.
5. Cultural and spiritual connection:
More than a spectacle, Inti Raymi is an opportunity to connect with Andean roots and understand the importance of nature, astronomy and spirituality in the life of the Incas.
Living the Inti Raymi in Cusco is an experience that combines history, culture and emotion in its maximum expression. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of the most grandiose and significant festivities in Peru.
