What is Inti Raymi?
Inti Raymi is a traditional festival celebrated in the city of Cusco, Peru, in honor of the sun, one of the most important deities in Inca culture. This celebration takes place every June 24, coinciding with the winter solstice and the moment when the sun is at its most distant point from the earth.
The term “Inti Raymi” comes from Quechua, the local indigenous language, and means “Festival of the Sun”. It is a festival of great importance in the region, where rituals and ceremonies are held in honor of the sun, in an attempt to keep the tradition and the ancestral Inca culture alive.
The Inti Raymi is an annual celebration that takes place in the city of Cusco, Peru. This traditional festivity starts from the beautiful Qoricancha Temple and culminates in the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
The celebration of Inti Raymi 2023 at Cusco’s Central Plaza
What is the meaning of the Sun in the Inti Raymi?
In the Inti Raymi, the Sun acquires a significant importance as the maximum deity. It represents the vital essence and marks the beginning of a new year in this festivity. The veneration and respect for the Sun was expressed through offerings, sacred lands and temples dedicated to his honor, since he was considered the provider of life and sustenance for the Inca culture.
When and where is Inti Raymi celebrated?
Every year, on June 24, the Inti Raymi or Festival of the Sun takes place during the winter solstice in the city of Cusco, Peru. This festivity is considered of great importance for the imperial city and is granted the status of a holiday.
The Inti Raymi brings together thousands of people, both locals and visitors from all over the world, who dress in traditional costumes and participate in the events that take place in different places, being the fortress of Sacsayhuaman the epicenter of the celebration. During the festival, offerings are made, songs are sung and various traditional dances are performed, which can be appreciated from the temple of Qoricancha passing the Main Square and culminating in the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman to pay tribute to the Sun God and give thanks for the fertility and abundance of the land.
