Holy Week in Cusco

Experiencing Holy Week in Cusco means witnessing the fervor of thousands of believers in the Lord (or “Tayta”) of Earthquakes.

The main day of the celebration is Easter Monday. The copper-colored image of Christ is taken from the cathedral in procession and greeted by local people from balconies adorned with beautiful textiles. On Good Friday, the Way of the Cross procession begins in Plaza San Francisco and continues to Sacsayhuaman, while at the same time the Hampi Rantikuy, or medicinal plant fair, is held, including the sale of crosses made from thorns, which are used for hanging from doorways to ward off evil.

And in contrast with other cities where religious solemnity predominates, in Cusco twelve typical dishes are eaten in honor of the twelve apostles.