Inti Raymi in Peru
June 24 · Level 10 · #73 of 2238
Inti Raymi is the Festival of the Sun, rooted in Inca traditions surrounding the Andean winter solstice. In Cusco, it has become a large theatrical celebration of the language, beliefs and ceremonial life of the Inca world.
How it is celebrated: costumed performers stage ceremonies at Qorikancha, Cusco’s main square and Sacsayhuamán. Music, processions and speeches in Quechua accompany an actor playing the Inca ruler.
The modern performance was first staged in 1944. It reconstructs the older festival using historical accounts, rather than continuing an ancient ceremony without interruption.