Santurantikuy in Cusco
In the heart of the Peruvian Andes, a remarkable event unfolds each year on December 24th in the historic city of Cusco. Known as Santurantikuy, this vibrant celebration offers travelers a rare opportunity to witness a deeply rooted local cultural tradition that beautifully blends Christian traditions with Andean beliefs. The event, which means “sale of saints” in Quechua, transforms the Plaza de Armas into a dynamic marketplace where artisans, villagers, and collectors converge to honor the spirit of Christmas in their own unique way.
What Is the Origin of Santurantikuy?
Unlike modern commercial holiday fairs, Santurantikuy has a fascinating story. Its roots stretch back to the colonial era, when Spanish friars introduced nativity scenes and Catholic customs to the Indigenous people of the Andes. In response, Andean artists began crafting their own interpretations of these traditions, incorporating symbols from both Inca culture and Catholic iconography.
Indeed, the name “Santurantikuy” comes from the Spanish and Quechua words meaning “to buy saints.” It reflects a time during the colonial period when Catholicism was merging with native spirituality, giving birth to a colorful and expressive festival that remains a key component of Christmas in Cusco.
Where Does Santurantikuy Take Place?
On the morning of December 24, the iconic Plaza de Armas becomes the epicenter of the festivities. Local artisans from surrounding regions arrive before dawn to set up their stalls, displaying an impressive array of handcrafted goods. Particularly, the sale of saints, wooden figures, and elaborate nativity scenes dominates the square.
Moreover, these creations are not simply decorative. Many hold deep cultural meaning, combining elements from both Christian traditions and pre-Columbian heritage. It should be noted that the Niño Manuelito, a local representation of the baby Jesus, is among the most revered figures for sale. Dressed in traditional Andean attire, this image reflects how deeply culture and tradition intertwine in the Andes.
What Can You Expect During the Event?
Clearly, Santurantikuy in Cusco is more than just a marketplace. It represents a living testament to centuries of spiritual fusion. Beyond the artistic pieces, visitors encounter live music, food stalls, and families gathering to purchase last-minute Christmas decorations or figurines for their home altars.
Additionally, the atmosphere buzzes with joy, reverence, and nostalgia. For many Cuzqueños, attending the fair is not only a seasonal activity but also a heartfelt ritual passed down through generations.
Who Are the Artisans and What Do They Sell?
Importantly, the artisans who participate in Santurantikuy play a crucial role in keeping Andean culture alive. Many of them descend from families of sculptors and carvers whose techniques date back hundreds of years. Their work showcases a unique blend of materials—including wood, clay, and textiles—that reflect both the sacred and the everyday.
Apart from crafting saints and nativity figures, these artists often embed Inca Trail motifs, animals, and local landscapes into their work. Furthermore, some even incorporate elements inspired by the colonial times, such as baroque-style detailing and European religious symbols.
What Languages and Traditions Are Present at Santurantikuy?
Nevertheless, what truly makes Santurantikuy special is its bilingual soul. Spoken interchangeably during the fair, Spanish and Quechua illustrate the cultural duality that characterizes Cusco. While Spanish represents the Catholic framework imposed during the colonial period, Quechua preserves the Indigenous worldview, giving voice to ancient wisdom.
Consequently, this duality is visible in every aspect of the fair—from the songs sung in both languages to the blessings whispered over newly purchased saints.
Why Visit Cusco During Santurantikuy?
Unlike traditional tourism that focuses on ruins and treks, visiting Cusco during Santurantikuy provides a chance to connect with the city on a more intimate level. Travelers often overlook December, assuming the rainy season makes it less ideal. However, the cultural richness on December 24th offers a compelling reason to visit.
Additionally, the weather tends to improve in the mornings, allowing visitors to comfortably enjoy the market while immersing themselves in an unforgettable celebration of culture and tradition.
Is There a Connection Between Santurantikuy and Inca Heritage?
Although Santurantikuy is a colonial-era event, its connection to ancient roots remains visible. For instance, many artisans and visitors travel from villages located along the Inca Trail, bringing with them oral stories, textiles, and spiritual practices passed down from Incan ancestors.
Conversely, this continuity between past and present highlights the resilience of Indigenous identity in modern Peru. Despite colonization, Andean communities have preserved their customs and reinterpreted imposed religions into something uniquely theirs.
What Makes Santurantikuy a Unique Christmas Experience?
Above all, Santurantikuy in Cusco captures the essence of a city where history breathes through its streets. Nowhere else in Peru do colonial times, Indigenous spirituality, and Catholic devotion meet in such a vibrant expression of unity.
Following this experience, many travelers leave with not only souvenirs but also a deeper appreciation for the local cultural mosaic that defines Cusco.
How Can You Prepare for Santurantikuy?
For those considering a December trip, Santurantikuy takes place every year on December 24th, making it a perfect addition to your holiday travel plans. Here are a few tips:
Arrive early: The best pieces sell out quickly. Getting to the Plaza de Armas by sunrise offers the best chance to explore calmly.
Bring cash: Most vendors don’t accept cards.
Ask questions: Artisans love sharing the stories behind their creations.
Dress in layers: Cusco mornings can be cold, but the midday sun can be intense.
Furthermore, combining your visit with local Christmas Eve celebrations provides a more holistic experience of Christmas in Cusco.
