El Señor de los Temblores – An Incredible Cusco Festival

Nearly every country in Latin America has a history that includes the convergence of various cultures and religions over the past centuries. Dating back at least 500 years (and in most cases much, much longer) the continent’s landscape witnessed the often complicated combining of cultures throughout its various regions. Although these situations were often complex to say the least, the modern cultural landscape contains a variety of Latin American cultures that is so diverse, that it would be nearly impossible to study all of them within a single lifetime. Numerous modern-day festivals mark the calendar during various times of year, and Peru’s city of Cusco plays host to one of the most interesting – Lord of the Tremors (or “El Señor de Los Temblores”).

As many people know, Cusco’s celebratory calendar contains a list of great celebrations, including All Saints Day, Corpus Christi and Christmas. However, the festival of Lord of the Tremors starts early in the year (goes from late March – early April), and it represents a unique combination of Andean-Christian beliefs. According to the historical recordings surrounding the event, since 1650, Cusco has celebrated the moment when a canvas painting of Christ on the Cross protected the city of Cusco from a major earthquake. According to the story, the canvas prevented the quake from doing too much harm to the city, and since this event took place, the residents have celebrated this holiday to give thanks to Taitacha Temblores, the Lord of the Earthquakes. The festival’s main procession begins at the Cathedral of Cusco and continues through the city’s streets. While the crowd carries the canvas image that represents the canvas that protected the city, others offer a special crimson-colored flower, which was once used as an ancient offering to Andean deities and now represents the blood of Christ. For these reasons, this Peruvian Festival stands as one of the country’s most unique opportunities to witness the combination of Andean-Christian histories and beliefs.

It is a beautiful celebration, and one not to be missed for all those that visit the city of Cusco. The combination of traditions is richly impressive, and this festival promises to etch itself in the memories of all who participate since it is a truly unique experience in one of Peru’s most impressive cities.