Independence Day: commemorating the sovereignty of Peru

"Peru is, from this moment, free and independent by the general will of the towns and by the justice of their cause that God defends. Long live the country! Long live freedom! Long live the independence!" Saturday, July 28, 1821. In front of more than 16,000 souls, Don José de San Martín proclaimed the Independence of Peru with an emotional speech in the Plaza de Armas in Lima. After almost 300 years of submission by the Spanish Empire, Peru was finally a sovereign republic.

At that time, the media did not have the speed to spread the good news. So, the Argentine military and politician had to repeat his proclamation in many places around the capital, such as the Plazuela de la Merced, in the Lima Center, and the Convento de los Descalzos, in district of Rímac. In both places, the liberation of the Peruvian people was heard.

Patriotic celebration

Many citizens use the holidays of July 28 and 29 to travel or rest with the family and reflect on the historic proclamation of the Independence of Peru. Also to pay tribute to the Armed Forces and the National Police of Peru, important institutions for national sovereignty.

It all starts early on the 28th with the traditional Te Deum Mass offered by the Archbishop in the Cathedral of Lima, where the main personalities of Peruvian politics go, including the president. Then, Peruvians gather in front of their televisions to listen to the 'Mensaje a la Nación' announced by the president, in which he reports to the nation on the progress of the government and the future challenges of the country.

The next day, on 29th, Brasil Avenue is dressed in red and white with the Military Parade of National Holidays. Thousands of attendees gather in its surroundings to see members of the Comando Conjunto de las Fuerzas Armadas, with the Peruvian Army, the Navy and the Air Force, as well as the International Red Cross and the General Fire Department, among the applause of the crowd.

Credits: shutterstock

Two days to commemorate the ancient culture and the enviable biodiversity that Peru has. To feel proud of its music, gastronomy, customs and traditions. To remember that, from the Pacific coast to the vast Amazon, Peru is a free homeland. Let it always be.