See our rooms
REVIEWED ON:
Close
Have you ever dreamed of being part of a celebration that combines religious faith with ancestral traditions in a unique and captivating way? If so, then the Festival of Crosses, or Cruz Velacuy, in Peru is an event you shouldn’t miss. Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural experience filled with devotion.
The Festival of Crosses, also known as Cruz Velacuy, is an annual celebration that takes place in May in various regions of Peru, especially in the Cusco department. This festival commemorates the exaltation of the Cross of Christ and is a fascinating fusion of Catholic beliefs and Andean indigenous traditions.
During the Festival of Crosses, the streets of cities and towns come alive with life and color. The crosses, crafted with extraordinary skill and creativity, take center stage. These works of art are adorned with flowers, fruits, seeds, leaves, and other natural materials, creating intricate designs that reflect the cultural richness of Peru.
Cruz Velacuy has its roots in the fusion of Catholic traditions and the pre-Columbian beliefs of Peru’s indigenous peoples. It is believed that this festivity emerged during the colonial period as a way to incorporate elements of Catholicism into indigenous ritual practices related to the worship of nature and protective spirits.
The Festival of Crosses, also known as Cruz Velacuy, is a celebration that pays homage to the Holy Cross as a symbol of protection, blessing, and fertility. During this festivity, crosses are adorned with flowers, candles, and other decorative elements, and are carried in procession through the streets of towns and cities, accompanied by songs, dances, and traditional music.
Each cross is unique and represents the hard work and devotion of local artisans. Some are simple, while others are true masterpieces, with elaborate designs that can measure several meters in height. These ephemeral crosses are admired during the celebration and then dismantled, leaving only memories and photos as testimony to their beauty.
In addition to the display of crosses, the Festival of Crosses also includes religious processions, traditional dances, and celebrations in the main squares. Catholic faithful participate in masses and prayers, while members of indigenous communities perform ancestral rituals to thank Mother Earth and pray for a good harvest.
What makes the Festival of Crosses so special is the way it combines elements of Catholic culture and Andean indigenous traditions. This fusion of beliefs and practices is a reflection of Peru’s cultural richness and diverse history.
The celebration of the Cross has its roots in the Catholic faith, which was introduced in Peru during the Spanish colonization. The cross is a central symbol of Christianity and represents the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
On the other hand, Andean indigenous communities have incorporated their own traditions and beliefs into the celebration. The decoration of crosses with natural elements, such as flowers and seeds, holds deep meaning in the Andean worldview, which venerates Mother Earth and her natural cycles.
The Festival of Crosses is much more than a simple religious celebration. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and experience firsthand the fusion of traditions that have shaped the country’s identity.
During the celebration, you can enjoy local cuisine, observe traditional dances, and witness the creativity and devotion of the artisans who craft the impressive crosses. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their beliefs and customs.
One of the most outstanding characteristics of Cruz Velacuy is the active participation of the local population, who are involved in all stages of the preparation and celebration of the festival. From the crafting of crosses and altars to the organization of processions and cultural activities, the community comes together in a spirit of devotion and camaraderie to honor the Holy Cross and strengthen the bonds of solidarity and tradition.
If you are looking for an authentic and enriching cultural experience, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Peru during the Festival of Crosses. Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant and colorful celebration, where devotion and culture intertwine in a fascinating way. This unique experience will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for Peru’s cultural diversity.
Dive into the city’s vibrant energy during the day and return to the calm and comfort of our hotel as night falls. Your home away from home awaits you with open arms.
Payments can be made using credit cards, debit cards or cash, either in US dollars or the Peruvian currency, soles. Likewise, we have bank accounts in both currencies, American dollars and Peruvian soles.
All rights reserved – Cusco Lodge Hotel Boutique 2024
