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Wondering when Holy Week is and where to have a unique experience during this period? In this article, I will guide you through Holy Week 2024 in Cusco, revealing not only the key dates, but also showing you why Cusco is one of the best tourist destinations for Holy Week and what it has to offer you during this religious celebration. Come and discover how to make your Holy Week an unforgettable experience!
Let’s start by solving the most important question: When is Easter Week in Cusco this year? The exact dates for 2024 are March 24 to 30. During these days, the city is filled with religious events, processions and cultural activities that make Cusco a special destination to live the Holy Week.
Holy Week in Cusco is a unique and vibrant celebration that combines the spirituality of religious traditions with the cultural richness of the region. During this time of year, the imperial city is filled with liturgical events, colorful processions and cultural activities that attract both locals and visitors.
Palm Sunday in Cusco marks the beginning of Holy Week and is a vibrant celebration that combines religious, cultural and festive elements. On this day, the procession of branches takes place, which consists of visiting the various parishes of the city carrying palm leaves and crosses symbolizing the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
These palms are blessed during the Eucharistic celebrations and then placed on the doors as a symbol of protection. The streets and squares through which the procession passes are decorated with carpets of flower petals, creating a colorful and artistic tapestry.
Exactly one day after Easter Sunday, this day is characterized by the procession of the Señor de los Temblores or Taytacha de los Temblores, where the historic streets are filled with devotees who accompany with images until reaching the Plaza de Armas of Cusco.
When the crucified Christ with indigenous characteristics arrives at the door of the cathedral, the blessing is given to those present. This is the most awaited moment by all.
The Almudena Church usually becomes a focal point for the community during Holy Tuesday. It is here that mass is held and the profession of the Lord of the Column takes place, enriching the Holy Week experience in Cusco, adding layers of spiritual and cultural significance to this important celebration.
On Holy Wednesday in Cusco takes place the solemn procession of the Holy Virgin Dolorosa del Rosario and the Lord Jesus of Nazareth. This moving event takes place from the Church of Santo Domingo and culminates in the majestic Plaza de Armas of the city. The procession stands as a moving act of faith and devotion, fusing spirituality with the cultural richness of the region.
Image courtesy of “Legado Cusco“
The epicenter of this day is in the churches. In the morning, in the Cathedral basilica, the archbishop washes the feet of 12 elders, recalling Jesus’ washing of the feet of his apostles. In the squares or markets, you will find the characteristic sweets of Holy Week, such as maicillos, bizcochuelos, suspiros and empanadas. At night, the families of Cusco tour the city on the route of the 7 churches, which recount the falls of Jesus on his way to Calvary.
It is a day of deep reflection and solemnity that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, for which fasting takes place while the processions of the Holy Sepulcher and the Virgin are carried out, both converging in the Plaza de Armas. In the gastronomic field, families gather to taste the twelve dishes in honor of the Last Supper. During this season, there are usually misturas fairs where you can find these dishes.
Additional fact: In the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, you will find people giving each other whippings; this is done as a way of expressing solidarity with Jesus on this day.
Image courtesy of “Tradiciones Cusqueñas“
This day marks the end of Holy Week, and a small procession is held followed by a mass in the streets. During the procession, you can smell the aroma of gastronomic delicacies such as caldo de gallina, empanadas, corn sweets, tamales and tortas.
Holy Week is a time when gastronomy becomes an integral part of the celebrations. In Cusco, the culinary traditions of Holy Week are as significant as the religious rituals. The following is a description of some typical dishes associated with the gastronomy of Holy Week:
If you are planning to spend Holy Week in Cusco, Peru, here are some recommendations to make the most of this special time:
These recommendations can help you enjoy a unique experience during Holy Week 2024 in Cusco, and I hope you have a wonderful time in this city full of history and culture. If you have any questions or advice please do not hesitate to contact us.
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.
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