Inti Raymi, the ancient Festival of the Sun, is one of the most significant celebrations in Peru and a must-see event for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. Held every June 24th in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, it attracts thousands of national and international visitors each year.
In this article, you will discover the history of Inti Raymi, its purpose during the Inca era, how it is celebrated today, where it takes place, the route it follows, ticket information, and frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit.
History of Inti Raymi in Cusco
Inti Raymi was established by Inca Pachacuti in the 15th century. It was a religious ceremony dedicated to Inti, the Sun God, considered the most important deity in the Inca pantheon. The festival marked the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere when the sun appeared to be at its farthest point from the earth. The Incas performed rituals to honor the sun and ensure its return, which was vital for good harvests.
In the times of the Inca Empire, the ceremony gathered nobles, priests, representatives from the four regions of the empire, and commoners. They paid tribute to the Sun with dances, songs, and offerings.
1. The Inca Origins According to Chroniclers
The earliest references to Inti Raymi come from the Spanish chroniclers who witnessed the Inca Empire at its height in the 16th century. These include Pedro Cieza de León, Garcilaso de la Vega, and Bernabé Cobo, who provided valuable insights into the festival’s significance and its role within Inca society.
- Pedro Cieza de León, in his work “Chronicles of Peru” (1550), describes the ceremonial grandeur of Inti Raymi, stating that the festival was “the most important religious celebration of the Inca state.” According to him, the Inca Emperor, dressed in ceremonial attire, would lead the procession and ritual, marking the occasion as both a spiritual and political event. The festival, he noted, involved significant participation from the people of the empire and was a time for public reaffirmation of the Inca’s divine connection to the Sun.
- Garcilaso de la Vega, a mestizo son of an Inca princess, provides a detailed account of the festival in his work “Royal Commentaries of the Incas” (1609). He emphasizes the ritualistic aspects of the festival, where the Inca and his royal court would gather to offer sacrifices to Inti and the other gods to ensure the survival and success of their agricultural cycle. This event was integral to maintaining the cosmic order and the divine rule of the Inca, according to Garcilaso.
- Bernabé Cobo, in his “History of the Inca Empire” (1613), described the role of the high priest, who would recite prayers and offer sacrifices to the Sun to ensure fertility for the coming harvests. The priest was seen as a mediator between the people and the gods, often calling on the people to partake in the collective ceremony to express gratitude and request blessings.
2. The Ceremony of Inti Raymi in the Inca Period
During the Inca Empire, the Inti Raymi was not only a religious act but also an expression of the emperor’s divine right to rule. The Inca, believed to be the direct descendant of the Sun God, would play a pivotal role in the rituals. The ceremony took place in the Sacsayhuamán area, a ceremonial and military complex in Cusco, where the central events, including dances, sacrifices, and prayers, would take place.
The Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) in Cusco was the primary location for the beginning of the ceremony, as it was dedicated to Inti. The Incas believed the Sun was the creator of life and that its power was central to the functioning of the universe. At dawn, the Inca would perform rituals at Qorikancha to greet the Sun and pay homage to it. Following this, the entire procession would move to Sacsayhuamán, where the major events of the festival would unfold.
- Offerings and Sacrifices: Llamas were commonly sacrificed during the ceremony, as their blood was considered a symbol of fertility and a gift to the gods. The high priest would perform the ritual sacrifice in the presence of the Inca, accompanied by prayers and offerings to Inti.
- Dances and Performances: Dancers, musicians, and participants dressed in elaborate costumes representing various deities, animals, and natural forces would engage in ceremonial dances. These dances were meant to show respect to the gods and ask for their favor for a good harvest and the continuation of peace and prosperity.
3. The Decline of Inti Raymi and Spanish Conquest
When the Spanish conquistadors, led by Francisco Pizarro, arrived in Peru in the early 1530s, they saw the Inti Raymi as a challenge to their Christian beliefs and their control over the newly conquered territory. In 1535, the Spanish authorities banned the festival as part of their broader efforts to suppress indigenous practices and force the conversion of the Andean population to Christianity.
The final Inti Raymi celebrated under the Inca Empire took place in 1535. After this, the festival was suppressed for nearly 400 years.
4. The Revival of Inti Raymi
In the 20th century, Inti Raymi was revived by José Borges, a Peruvian intellectual and director of the Municipal Theater of Cusco, as a way to reconnect with the ancestral roots of the Andean culture. The first modern reenactment took place in 1944, and since then, it has grown into one of the most significant cultural festivals in Peru, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Today, the festival is celebrated with a mix of historical accuracy and theatrical performance, drawing from the rich chronicles of the Spanish and Inca sources to provide a true-to-life depiction of the ancient ceremonies.
Purpose of Inti Raymi During the Inca Period
The primary purpose of Inti Raymi was to thank the Sun for the harvests and ask for prosperity for the new agricultural cycle. It also served as a political and spiritual act, where the Inca, as the Sun’s descendant, reaffirmed his divine connection and leadership before the people.
The festival symbolized renewal, strength, and harmony between humans, nature, and the gods.
Where is Inti Raymi Celebrated Today?
Today, Inti Raymi is a theatrical reenactment of the original ceremony, and it takes place in three iconic locations in Cusco:
1. Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha / Church of Santo Domingo)
The ceremony begins in the morning at the Qorikancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Here, the Inca greets the Sun, and the first ceremonial acts are performed with offerings.
2. Plaza de Armas, Cusco
The royal procession moves to the Plaza de Armas, where the Inca is greeted by representatives from the four corners of the empire. This reenactment symbolizes the political and cultural unity among the different regions of the Inca Empire.
3. Sacsayhuamán Fortress
The grandest and most spectacular act takes place at Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca site on the outskirts of Cusco. Here, traditional dances, the symbolic sacrifice of a llama, offerings to the Sun, and speeches from the Inca are performed. This is the most awaited moment for visitors.
Inti Raymi Tickets: Where to Buy and How Much Do They Cost?
While the events at the Qorikancha and Plaza de Armas are free, it is highly recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot.
For the grand performance at Sacsayhuamán, tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets can be bought:
- Through authorized travel agencies
- On the official event website or the Cusco municipality page
- Directly at tourist points in the city
Types of Tickets:
- Green Tribune: General view
- Orange Tribune: Better location
- Blue Tribune: Reserved for locals (limited)
Ticket prices range from USD $30 to $150, depending on the seating and the agency.
Conclusion
The Inti Raymi is much more than just a celebration; it is a connection to the Inca heritage, showcasing the strength and resilience of the Andean people. The detailed accounts of chroniclers like Cieza de León, Garcilaso de la Vega, and Bernabé Cobo offer an invaluable window into the spiritual and cultural significance of the festival during the Inca period. Even though it was suppressed by the Spanish conquest, the revival of Inti Raymi in modern times allows us to relive this powerful connection with the sun and nature, celebrating the grandeur of Peru’s past.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Inti Raymi celebrated?
It is celebrated every June 24th, coinciding with the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.
How long does Inti Raymi last?
The main ceremony lasts about 6 hours, from the morning until the afternoon.
Do I need a guide to attend?
A guide is not required, but it is highly recommended if you want to learn more about the historical and symbolic context of each act.
Is Inti Raymi suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly, but be sure to bring sun protection, water, and warm clothing, as Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable.
Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, taking photos is allowed, but if you want professional shots, some areas may require special permission.
I am Carlos, founder of Machu Picchu Soul, a local tour operator and travel agency based in Cusco, Peru. My journey in tourism began as a porter on the iconic Inca Trail, where I developed a deep connection with the land and its history. After years of dedication, I became a professional tour guide, honing my skills to deliver exceptional experiences. With over 15 years of expertise, I decided to establish Machu Picchu Soul to combine my passion for authentic travel with a commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
