While some people feel many aspects of ancient Inca traditions and culture were lost over time, there is an important conclusion that, without doubt, is still alive and well within the heart of the Inca Cusco. Inti Raymi translated from Inca Quechua language means "The Festival of the Sun" is held annually on June 24, the winter solstice, when the Sun is farthest from the Earth.
The importance of this festival can be traced to ancient times when out of fear of hunger, the Incas would converge in Cusco to pay tribute to the Sun God and pray for him to return to them. Some of the traditional forms of honoring the God of the Sun were fasting, give gifts and denying any mortal pleasures. They also created a lavish feast of bread, meat and traditional beverages such as tea chicha and native coca and readied for sacrifice llamas bring favor in their fields and harvest.
The celebrations were considered as pagans and anti-Catholic in 1572 by Viceroy Toledo and for years the traditional festival took place secretly out of sight of the strict practice of churches. Today, however, he became the second biggest festival in South America. Tourists from all over the world arrive to Cusco to celebrate the feast day of the week, with special events taking place each day there are exhibitions, dancing in the streets, live music and all Peruvian traditional delicacies.
The festivities culminate on June 24 with a feast day, the historic day of Inti Raymi. During the day there are ceremonial events of the Church of Santo Domingo, Plaza Koricancha, believed to be built on the ancient temple of the Sun. From there rides a procession to Sacsayhuam n; known as the old fortress hilled up robes Cusco where traditional dresses Inca high priests. The priests and other historic royalty walk the streets with music, prayers and dancing until they reach the Sacsayhuam No. Once there are speeches given by several religious figures and real.
Cusco is usually beyond religious meals during this festival so if interested in travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu during this time of year, you should consider their hotels and services soon to be sure to get booking reservations. With the proper preplanning is truly a special moment and exciting to visit Peru. There are many tourist guides and vacation packages that will work with you to help make your festival of Inti Raymi visit truly unforgettable.
