What is Inti Raymi?
Inti Raymi is an annual festival celebrated in Cusco, Peru, in honor of the sun, one of the most important deities of the Inca culture. It takes place on June 24, coinciding with the winter solstice. During this festival, rituals and ceremonies are performed to keep alive the tradition and ancestral Inca culture, paying homage to the sun as the source of life and fertility.
Inti Raymi is an opportunity to connect with the past and preserve the practices and beliefs passed down through generations. It is a manifestation of respect and devotion to the sun, recognizing it as a sacred divinity. This celebration is important for the Cusco region, as it represents the connection with its history and cultural heritage, allowing people to pay tribute to the sun and celebrate its influence on everyday life.
Inti Raymi is an annual festival in Cusco, Peru, which begins at the Temple of Qoricancha and culminates at the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. This celebration stands out for its rituals and ceremonies in honor of the sun, representing the connection with the Inca culture. It is an enriching and meaningful experience.
The celebration of Inti Raymi 2023 at Cusco’s Central Plaza
What is the meaning of the Sun in the Inti Raymi?
During Inti Raymi, the Sun becomes a supremely important deity. It represents the essence of life and marks the beginning of a new annual cycle in this festivity. Worship and respect for the Sun was manifested through offerings, the consecration of sacred lands and the construction of temples in its honor. The Incas considered the Sun as the provider of life and sustenance, so he was revered and these acts of devotion were attributed to him.
When and where is Inti Raymi celebrated?
The Inti Raymi, also known as Festival of the Sun, is celebrated annually on June 24 in the city of Cusco, Peru, coinciding with the winter solstice. This festivity is of great importance for the imperial city, being even declared a holiday.
Inti Raymi attracts a multitude of people, both locals and visitors from all over the world, who dress in traditional attire and participate in the events that take place at various sites, with the Sacsayhuaman fortress being the focal point of the celebration. During this festivity, offering rituals are carried out, chants are sung and various traditional dances are performed. The tour begins at the Qoricancha temple, passes through the Main Square and culminates at the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where homage is paid to the Sun God and gratitude is expressed for the fertility and abundance of the land.
