The Corpus Christi festival in Cusco is not just a religious event but a vibrant expression of culture and tradition that thrives in the heart of the Andes. This annual event brings together the sacred and the secular in a spectacular display of devotion and communal celebration. During this festival, the streets of Cusco transform with the colorful processions, the aromas of traditional food, and the sounds of folk music, as locals and visitors gather to honor the patron saints of the region. Sacred images, carefully adorned, are carried in procession through the main plazas of the city, in a display that attracts not only devotees but also tourists from around the world eager to experience Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
- Cultural Fusion: Corpus Christi in Cusco blends ancient Incan traditions with Spanish colonial influences, transforming ancestral ceremonies into Christian celebrations to integrate and adapt local customs to Christianity since the 16th century.
- Procession of Devotion: The festival is a majestic event that draws both faithful and tourists, beginning with vibrant processions of adorned saints from various parishes to Cusco’s Cathedral.
- Central Celebration: The Plaza de Armas in Cusco serves as the main stage of the festival, where the procession of religious figures captures the attention and participation of the community and visitors.
- Culture and Gastronomy: Corpus Christi is not only notable for its religious significance but also as a celebration of Cusco’s rich cultural heritage, such as Chiri Uchu, highlighting Andean culinary traditions and offering an enriching and colorful experience.
The Corpus Christi festival in Cusco is one of the city’s most spectacular celebrations, where saints and virgins from various churches are carried in procession to Cusco’s Cathedral. Below is a list of some of the most venerated images during this festivity.
Saint Anthony

Saint Anthony of Padua is one of the most beloved and venerated saints in Christianity, known especially as the patron of lost objects. His life was dedicated to preaching and teaching in the Franciscan tradition. Born in Portugal, Anthony stood out for his profound knowledge of Scripture and his eloquence, which made him a formidable preacher. He is often depicted with the Child Jesus, symbolizing a miraculous vision in which the Child Jesus appeared to him. This image reflects his sweetness and ability to connect with the faithful in a direct and emotional way. His feast day is celebrated on June 13, and it is common to seek his intercession to help recover lost items.
Saint Jerome
Known as the translator of the Bible from Greek and Hebrew into Latin, Saint Jerome is venerated for his dedication to study and his ascetic life in the desert. His story is marked by an unrelenting pursuit of religious knowledge and the creation of the Vulgate, one of the most influential biblical translations.
Saint Christopher
The protector of travelers, Saint Christopher is best known for the legend in which he carried a small child across a dangerous river, only to discover that the child was Christ. He symbolizes strength and service, representing the burden of carrying Christ to the world.
Saint Sebastian
A famous martyr known for surviving being shot with arrows, only to later be martyred for his faith. Saint Sebastian is often invoked as a protector against plagues and illnesses due to his resilience and unwavering faith.
Saint Barbara
According to tradition, Saint Barbara was imprisoned in a tower by her father, who later killed her for converting to Christianity. She is the patroness of artillerymen and miners, symbolizing protection from sudden dangers.
Saint Anne
Recognized as the mother of the Virgin Mary, Saint Anne is venerated for her patience and faith. Apocryphal stories describe her as a devout woman who, alongside her husband Joachim, waited years before being blessed with their daughter, Mary.
Apostle Saint James

Known as James the Greater, he was one of Jesus’ first disciples. According to tradition, he brought Christianity to Spain, and his tomb in Santiago de Compostela is a famous pilgrimage site.
Saint Blaise
A bishop and martyr in Armenia, Saint Blaise is known for the miracle of saving a child choking on a fishbone. He is the patron saint of throat ailments and veterinarians.
Saint Peter
Considered the first Pope, Saint Peter is central to Christianity for his role as one of the principal apostles and being “the rock” on which Jesus would build his church.
Saint Joseph
The husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus, Saint Joseph is a model of fatherhood and a humble worker. His devotion to his family and unwavering faith make him a pillar of Christian history.
Virgin of the Nativity
This devotion celebrates the birth of the Virgin Mary. Her image is especially revered during the celebration of her birth, symbolizing purity and divine grace.
Virgin of Remedies
Introduced to the Americas by the Spaniards, this Marian devotion is associated with protection and aid in times of need, serving as a symbol of comfort and hope for the faithful.
Purified Virgin

This image venerates Mary in her presentation and purification in the temple, highlighting her life of dedication and service to God from her youth.
Virgin of Bethlehem
Known locally as Mamacha Bethlehem, she is celebrated in Cajamarca, Peru, where her image was found on the Hill of Bethlehem. She represents maternal love and protection.
Immaculate Virgin
Known for her immaculate conception, the Immaculate Virgin is a symbol of purity and divine grace. She is one of the most widespread and venerated Marian images in Christianity.
Traditional Customs: During Corpus Christi, the community gathers to celebrate with music, dances, and typical food, highlighting the dish Chiri Uchu, which represents the fusion of Andean gastronomy with Cusco’s religious history. This festival is not only an expression of faith but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.