00:08 | Cusco (Cusco region), Jun. 25.
Cusco residents, cusqueñistas (Cusco cultural enthusiasts), and visitors from around the world were thrilled by the
Inti Raymi reenactments at its three sacred venues on Wednesday.
The Festival of the Sun on Cusco Day began on the Inca Temple of Qoricancha's esplanade, where thousands gathered in the surrounding area with benches and umbrellas to watch Inca ruler Pachacutec—portrayed by teacher David Ancca Cuyo—receive the delegations from the four suyos (regions).
The sky was clear as the radiant Sun—the mighty Inti—guided his favored son to Hawkaypata (Cusco's Main Square), where he ascended the ushnu, or ceremonial altar, to receive the reading of the coca leaves and learn what the day had in store for him.
The Sun God Inti and the winds heralded a favorable day.
The Andean priests observed that the coca leaves gleamed brightly and, upon tasting them, found them sweet.
It was then time to summon Cusco Mayor Luis Pantoja Calvo for the "Encounter of Two Worlds" scene.
The mayor approached the Inca ruler to receive the quipu—the Inca's administrative instrument—as a symbol of good governance.
However, the Inca instructed him to foster unity throughout his land and promote work for the development of all.
Thousands of spectators gathered beneath the arcades surrounding Cusco's Main Square applauded the gesture of Tahuantinsuyo's supreme ruler.
With Quechua-language shouts of "Haylli Qosqo!" ("Long Live Cusco!") they bid him farewell before reuniting later on Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park's esplanade.
Shortly after 2:00 p.m. (local time), nearly 4,000 tourists filled the seats provided by the Municipal Company for Celebrations and Tourism Promotion of Cusco (Emufec), the organization in charge of staging the reenactments.
Another 50,000 spectators gathered in the surrounding areas, designated viewing zones, and the open grounds of the vast esplanade.
More than 1,200 performers—including soldiers from the 5th Mountain Brigade, students, youth, and families—reenacted Inti Raymi amid the enthusiasm of tourists, who regard Inca civilization as one of the world's greatest cultures.
The rituals honoring the sacred fire, chicha de jora, the zancj'u, and the symbolic sacrifice of a llama captivated visitors.
Some were left open-mouthed at the sight of bloodied organs being removed from the camelid's entrails, an act that is symbolic.
Although the audio malfunctioned at times and some tourists entered the reenactment area to take photos or record videos, the ceremony continued.
The Coya, the Inca, and his entourage, in that order, bid farewell until next year, when the Cusco Festivities will once again invite them to take part in this eagerly awaited celebration.
Data
The Inti Raymi reenactment is the top event honoring the city of Cusco and its jubilee month. It took place following weeks of music and dance performances, as well as cultural, educational, religious, and folkloric activities.
(END) PHS/TMC/MVB
Published: 6/25/2026