31/07/09

More than 400 Cusco residents as well as domestic and foreign tourists visited Saturday the Sacsayhuaman Fortress in Cusco to participate in an ancient ritual thanking Pachamama (Mother Earth in Quechua language). The ceremony, considered one of the most important events given the number of people that usually attends it, takes place every August 1, near the fortress and temple of Sacsayhuaman.

The ceremony was celebrated by anthropologist Carlos Candia Muriel who played the role of pampamisayoc (name given to an Andean priest). The ritual began at noon (17:00 GMT) with the participation of several tourists, especially from Italy. They prepared a round hole for the great offering, then amid prayers, they blessed the offering that was presented to the Pachamama. After this, the audience presented their offerings in this round hole, including flowers, food (especially candies) and all sort of drinks. Also coca leaves, element considered as sacred by Andean people and indispensable in such rites.

source Andina