Mamacha Carmen Festivity

The Virgen del Carmen festivity -known locally as Mamacha Carmen- is a perfect example of the syncretism between Spanish Catholicism and Inca culture. Thousands of devotees celebrate all day and night long in many towns in the Cusco department, though the most well-know festivity takes place in Paucartambo, a 4-hour ride from Cusco.

Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizos, is accompanied through the procession by dance companies in richly decorated costumes. There are musicians playing Andean instruments and a choir that sings in Quechua. On the central day, July 16th, the Virgin is carried through town for her to bless the attendants and scare away demons. After a simulated battle against, the parade heads towards the cemetery to render homage to the dead.

Though the main day is the 16th, you could reach Paucartambo a couple of days earlier to see the preparations. It’s a good idea to book an accommodation in advance. If you go, don’t miss in the spectacular sunrise from Tres Cruces viewpoint (make sure to wear warm clothes because it gets pretty cold up there).

Add comment July 10th, 2006

Peruvian Cuisine New Website

PromPerú, Peru’s board for the promotion of Tourism, has recently launched a nice culinary website: Perú, Mucho Gusto (which translates in something like “Peru, much pleasure”).

It features an introduction to Peru’s different regional cuisines, information regarding a few typical dishes, and some very appealing photographs. The Spanish version is currently more comprehensive, and includes a essential list of the main ingredients found in Peruvian dishes.

Add comment July 10th, 2006