WHAT IS THE INTI RAYMI? THE SUN CELEBRATION IN CUSCO

During the winter solstice – the Inti Raymi or Festival of the Sun takes place in Cusco. This was the most sacred celebration in the mighty Inca Empire, paying homage to Inti or the god of Sun.

On June 24th, as the sun reaches its celestial zenith over the Andes, Cusco transforms into a vibrant stage for two weeks of rituals honoring Inti’s life-giving power.

Historical Review

According to the chronicles, during the ceremony, the Inca would receive the sun kneeling down with open arms. Subsequently, he would take a golden cup in his left hand to offer chicha (a fermented corn drink) to his relatives, while with his right hand, he would pour chicha into a golden jar.

After the local chiefs delivered their offerings, the high priest would light the fire used for sacrificing the livestock. To mark the beginning of the festival days, the meat would be distributed among all those in attendance.

How it is celebrated?

Today, the main feature of the Inti Raymi is the colorful and historical reenactment of the ancient Inca ceremony honoring the Wawa Inti (Child of the Sun). Hundreds of actors donning traditional Inca attire bring this staging to life, with the lead roles played by the high priest Willaq Umo, the Inca nobility, the Inca ruler himself, and his wife the Coya.

Additionally, there are personifications of the Inca’s retinue and delegates from the four corners of the Tahuantinsuyu empire. This reenactment lasts one day, during which the entire ‘Imperial City’ of Cusco joyfully celebrates the Festival of the Sun.

The goal is to revive and appreciate the culture of the Inca ancestors, as well as motivate tourists to visit Peru. Each year, over 700 performers take the stage, with an expected audience of over 100,000 spectators, including tourists and locals alike.

When is celebrated?

• The magical city of Cusco dons its finest attire every June 24th to celebrate one of its most ancient and sacred traditions: the Inti Raymi.
• For the people of Cusco, direct descendants of those millennial peoples, June 24th is a jubilant day declared a holiday.
• On the cobblestone streets, the air is filled with aromas of traditional foods, while multicolored flags adorn balconies and plazas.

Conclusion

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