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Peru Culture Bulletin

Holy Week in Peru is a unique manifestation of religious fervor and cultural syncretism between Catholic and Andean traditions. In various provinces of the country, the celebrations have been declared Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture of Peru, highlighting the richness of these expressions that commemorate the life, passion, death, and resurrection of Christ.


In Ayacucho
Holy Week in this region represents a prominent cultural expression and extraordinarily symbolizes the mysticism and Catholic Christian devotion deeply rooted in the local population. Recognized as the main Catholic religious festival in the country and the second largest worldwide, this celebration attracts the participation of families and tourists from different parts of the world.
This celebration is characterized by an extensive program of processions that display fervor and mysticism, drawing active participation from the community and visitors. During these days, the population enthusiastically engages in religious ceremonies, as well as various cultural and artistic activities.
In Cajamarca
The Festival of the Crosses of Porcón is a deeply rooted Andean and Catholic tradition representing the triumphant entry of Christ into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. This festival attracts crowds that prepare in advance from Lent to celebrate in a special way.
The activity, rooted in the rural community, involves the careful preparation of crosses adorned with mirrors, paintings, and flowers, reaching over two meters in height, following a thematic and cultural procedure closely linked to traditions passed down through generations. It is important to recognize and appreciate this religious expression that represents a fervor deeply rooted in the community, where the Festival of the Crosses of Porcón becomes a symbol of hope rather than a commemoration of the death of Christ.

In Cusco
In this region, Palm Sunday marks the end of Lent and the beginning of Holy Week, a significant Catholic festival. Through the years the fervor towards the Lord of the Earthquakes, also known as the Sworn Patron of Cusco, persists.
Holy Week in the city begins with the blessing of palm leaves and woven crosses, which are hung on the doors of homes as a symbol of protection. Holy Monday is notable for the devotion to the Lord of the Earthquakes, with a religious celebration that includes a massive procession, and the following days continue with activities like a procession to the Holy Sacrament, the washing of the feet of twelve elders, the tradition of visiting seven churches at night and the tradition of the twelve dishes.
In Lima
The festivities encompass a variety of events, from masses to religious tours such as the itinerary of the 7 churches during Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
The Historic Center of Lima hosts processions of various images of Christ and the Virgin, from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. The preparation begins with Ash Wednesday and highlights the Three-Hour Sermon.
Holy Week in Peru is much more than a religious celebration; it is the convergence of faith, mysticism, traditions, and customs deeply rooted in the identity of each region. Through these manifestations, the country pays homage to its cultural diversity and strengthens the connection between generations, preserving the legacy of its most significant celebrations.

 
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