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Did you know that, All Saints’ Day in Cusco or day of the dead is celebrated with a delicious and colourful tradition? T’anta Wawas, also known as baby bread, are an essential part of this festivity. But what exactly are T’anta Wawas and what is their significance? Join us on this tour to find out.
T’anta Wawa is a Quechua term meaning ‘baby bread’. These bread figures, which are often in the shape of a baby walteado (which is a baby wrapped in queperina), are decorated with bright colours and details of dough or candy. They are prepared especially for All Saints’ Day, which is celebrated on 1 November in Cusco and in various regions of Peru.
What is a Queperina?
Also known as llicllas, they are woven blankets made of traditional Andean material. They are made from the wool of auquenids such as llamas, alpacas and sheep, these blankets are woven with designs of figures representative of Cusco and are resistant. They are used to help mothers carry their babies on their backs.
The T’anta Wawas have their roots in ancient pre-Hispanic traditions, as can be seen in different historical chronicles. Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the Andean people had rituals to honour the deceased and among them is the T’anta Wawa. With the arrival of Catholicism, these customs merged with the Christian celebrations of All Saints’ Day, creating a unique tradition that endures to this day.
Garcilaso de la Vega describes how the Incas used corn to make different types of bread. The ‘zancu’ was prepared for solemn sacrifices, while the ‘huminta’ was made for festivities and gifts. Finally, ‘tanta’ was the common bread that was consumed on a daily basis. This common bread, known as T’anta Wawa, has endured over time and remains an important cultural symbol.
The festivity of All Saints, which has European roots, was introduced in Cusco during the colony. According to Guamán Poma de Ayala, the month of November, known as Aya Marcay Killa (month of the dead), was a time to remember and honour the dead. During this celebration, the dead were taken out of their graves, dressed in rich clothes and carried in procession while being offered food and drink, among these were the T’anta wawa.
The celebration of All Saints’ Day in Europe originated in the 8th century with Alcuin of York and was made official by Pope Boniface IV in 610. The date of the celebration was changed from 13 May to 1 November by Pope Gregory III to coincide with pagan festivals, facilitating the conversion of these peoples to Christianity. In Spain, it is customary to visit cemeteries, light lights and bring flowers to graves, similar to the practices observed in Cusco.
In Cuzco, All Saints’ Day was instituted by Viceroy Francisco de Toledo, who prohibited the indigenous practices of removing the dead from their graves. However, the customs were adapted, and the T’anta Wawas became a symbol of this cultural syncretism. These bread figures represent the fusion of Andean traditions with European influences, keeping alive the memory of the ancestors.
T’anta Wawas are more than just a decorated bread; they represent a deep connection with the ancestors. On All Saints’ Day, Cusquenian families prepare these breads and take them to the cemetery to share them with their deceased loved ones as an offering of love and remembrance.
In addition to honouring the dead, the T’anta Wawas also celebrate life. The baby form symbolises rebirth and the continuity of life, reminding everyone that although loved ones are no longer physically present, their spirit lives on in the heart of the family.
T’anta Wawas are made with simple but significant ingredients: flour, yeast, sugar, milk, salt, warm water, eggs and butter. The dough is moulded by hand to form figures of walled babies and, sometimes, animals such as horse bread. They are then decorated with details of dyed dough or candy, graffiti and plaster masks, creating traditional expressions and costumes.
The elaboration of the T’anta Wawas is usually a communal process. In many Cusquenian households, the preparation of these breads is a family activity where everyone participates, from the youngest to the oldest. This collaboration not only strengthens family ties, but also keeps the tradition alive through generations.
On the 1st of November, Cusco families visit the cemeteries to pay homage to their deceased. They bring flowers, candles and, of course, the T’anta Wawas, which they place on the graves as offerings. This act symbolises the remembrance and celebration of the lives of their departed loved ones.
After the visit to the cemetery, families gather at home to share a special meal. T’anta Wawas are served along with other traditional dishes, creating an atmosphere of celebration and family togetherness. It is a time to remember stories, laugh and keep the memory of ancestors alive.
If you are in Cusco during All Saints’ Day and you want to enjoy the tradition of the T’anta Wawas, there are several places where you can buy them. Here are some recommended options:
Cusco’s local markets are excellent places to find fresh and authentic T’anta Wawas. Some of the most popular include:
During the festivities, it is common to find fairs and craft shops selling T’anta Wawas. These fairs are usually located in squares and tourist areas of Cusco, such as:
Tip for Buying T’anta Wawas
Visit early: T’anta Wawas are very popular during All Saints’ Day, so it’s best to go early to make sure you get the best options before they sell out.
T’anta Wawas are a beautiful tradition that reflects the cultural richness of Cusco and the deep connection of its inhabitants with their roots and ancestors. This special bread, prepared with love and dedication, is not only a culinary delight, but also a symbol of life, memory and family togetherness.
If you ever visit Cusco during Day of the dead, don’t miss the opportunity to try a T’anta Wawa and to participate in this moving celebration. Our hotel is located very close to the Plaza de Armas where the central point of the festivity of day of the dead takes place. Book with us and don’t miss the opportunity to participate in this festivity. Book with us through our website or whatsapp any of our rooms.
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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