The Imperial City of Cusco began its jubilee month celebrations by delivering an offering to the Pachamama (Mother Earth), as a sign of gratitude while —at the same time— asking it for the success of multiple commemorative activities that will be carried out by citizens.
Municipal, military, ecclesiastical, and justice administration authorities, as well as civil organization representatives began the events with the raising of the Peruvian and Tahuantinsuyo flags, joined by the singing of hymns at the foot of the Cathedral Basilica.
Afterwards, Andean priests stationed themselves in the middle of the Hawkaypata (Main Square) —where there used to be an Ushnu (ceremonial center) in the past— to gather the food produced in Cusco, as well as the sacred coca leaves, sweets, and Chicha de Jora (a corn beer or chicha).
Under the radiant sun and the blue sky, the attendees formed their k’intus of coca leaves, in which they entrusted themselves to the tutelary Apus (guardian deities): “Wanakaure,” “Pachatusan,” “Sacsayhuaman,” “Salkantay,” “Ausangate,” “Mama Simona,” among others, so that these dates will be marked by unity and fellowship between Cusco’s people and their visitors.
The rite concluded with the delivery of the offering to a hole that was dug at the foot of the masts.
The Andean priests in their native language, Quechua, requested the Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Inti (Sun God) that they live days of joy and that, once the COVID-19 pandemic is overcome, Cusco returns to the development, which had always characterized the area.
Cusco Mayor Luis Pantoja Calvo told Andina news agency that the city will live its festivities to the fullest.
“These celebrations will serve to unite the people of Cusco, and we invite visitors to become part of it,” he said after expressing his good wishes to the Pachamama.
In turn, the Municipal Company for Celebrations and Promotion of Cusco (Emufec) —organizer of these festivities— reported that starting today more than 100 religious, cultural, academic activities, among others, will take place in the city’s historic center and public places.
Therefore, the Plan Sol (Sun Plan) for safety, order, and cleanliness is being socialized with neighbors.
One of the most important festivities will be the beginning of pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Señor de Qoyllur Riti (Lord of Qoyllur Riti), which starts this weekend in Cusco and the provincial capitals, from where thousands of pilgrims and Catholic faithful will travel on vehicles and on foot to the place of Sinakara. It is located in the district of Ocongate, Quispicanchi province.
The parades of educational, public, and private institutions; civil organizations; the entrance of Corpus Christi; among others; are approaching next week, which will make Cusco’s people renew their customs and traditions, while visitors join them and get to know the real essence of this ancient city.