Traditions, customs and gastronomy are the main cross-cultural differences between nations. One country that highlights its plurality is Peru and it proudly represents the natural Latin flavor that characterizes its dances and festivities, as well as the native dishes of the region. Its origin is varied due to the blending between the Spaniards colonizers, Japanese migrants and Peruvian citizens. The mixture of cultures spread all over the country, creating a peculiar way of living.
The Coastal Region is composed of farming valleys, islands, deserts and the territorial sea. Among its most important traditions we find the procession of the Lord of Miracles and the celebration of the Carnival; people from all over the country and the world participate in such events.
The Harvest Festival: It is the most remarkable tradition which celebrates the abundance of grapes and the winery production in the Ica region. The winery process has been preserved since ancient times and the manufacture method goes from the handling of raw seeds until the management of large tracts into the green land areas. “The poor Steak” is the typical dish of the territory and it is called this way because only the hungry people consume it; it consists of a large steak served with rice, fries and fried banana accompanied with a tomato and lettuce salad. It is consider a heavy dish.
The Highland “los Andes”: It is characterized by comprising canyons and plateaus of different altitudes and morphologies.
Traditional dances: The scissors dance, an indigenous dance, was originated in the region of Ayacucho and this Peruvian tradition is performed with harp and violin instruments even though they are not native to the region.
Religion and Customs: For Peruvians it is important to praise the natural gods, because of their Inca origin. “Inti Raymi” relates to a thankful ceremony in which the Sun God manifests and it takes place in the “Sacsayhuaman” building; a truly amazing structure that is used as a ceremonial ritual and it is very visited by eager tourists who want to participate in this great event.
Moreover, in this area, the patasca is their signature dish, it consist of tripe and beef; however, in some places its head is also added; Peruvian say that it gives a unique flavor to the preparation.
The Selva region is comprised of high and low areas, and the “Cashi Apu” traditional dance is held to worship the Bat God to ask for protection; this dance belongs to the “Shipilba” community.
Finally, the “Yacuruna” is part of the Peruvian customs and is related to the magical spirits of the low jungle; it is said that guides animals and is invoked by shamans and healers, both for good and for evil.
This wide variety of foods and beliefs are what make Peru a unique country worth visiting to behold and enjoy their fauna, their people and colorful dances which represents an inexhaustible source of inspiration.
My wonderful Peru, that’s where I grew up when I was little, my father was doing work there and my mother died when I was a baby, so my father took me with him a raised me there… amazing culture!
How interesting it was to realize the mixture of cultures and the diversity of the Peruvian culture. Most definitely a travel it worth taking.