Santurantikuy in Cusco: Tradition, Art, and Christmas Spirituality

Discover the Santurantikuy in Cusco, an event that captures the essence of Christmas in the heart of Peru. This festivity, celebrated every December 24th in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, is more than a Christmas market: it is a vibrant showcase of Andean culture and tradition. A place where local artisans exhibit their unique creations, and visitors can immerse themselves in an atmosphere filled with history, devotion, and art.

The History of Santurantikuy

Santurantikuy, which translates to “sale of saints,” is a tradition dating back to colonial times. Initially established as a market where indigenous artisans sold religious figures and other items for the Christmas altars of Cusco families, it has grown into one of the city’s most significant cultural events. This market is not only a commercial space but also a cultural meeting point that reflects the fusion of Catholic traditions introduced by the Spanish and Andean customs.

Nativity Scenes and Andean Religious Figures

Nativity scenes are a central part of Santurantikuy. Local artists and artisans dedicate months of work to sculpt and paint religious figures representing the birth of Jesus, incorporating elements of Andean iconography. Each figure is unique, standing out for its detail and the inclusion of native symbols such as Andean animals and traditional clothing, connecting the story of Christmas with Cusco’s cultural context.

Andean Rituals and Ceremonies

During Santurantikuy, artisans do more than sell crafts; the event is accompanied by various rituals and ceremonies with pre-Columbian roots adapted to Christian festivities. These include blessings of the figurines, traditional music played with Andean instruments, and dances that narrate stories and legends of the region. Each ritual reinforces Cusco’s cultural identity and promotes the continuity of its ancient traditions.

Niños Manuelitos: Messengers of Tradition

Niños Manuelitos messengers of tradition

A standout figure in the Santurantikuy market is the Niño Manuelito, an Andean adaptation of the infant Jesus. These figures not only symbolize Christmas but also serve as messengers of peace and hope for the new year. They are crafted from various materials and are often brought home to be placed in nativity scenes, where they hold a central place in family celebrations.

Reflections on the Cultural Expression of Santurantikuy

Santurantikuy is more than a Christmas market; it is a profound expression of Cusco’s cultural identity. Through its crafts, rituals, and music, this festivity teaches us about the resilience and adaptation of Andean traditions in a modern world. Every element of Santurantikuy is a living testament to how communities can preserve and honor their cultural heritage in the face of globalization, offering visitors an authentic and meaningful window into the soul of Cusco.

Each segment of this text seeks to capture the reader’s attention, spark their interest, and motivate them to learn more about this beautiful tradition, creating an emotional connection that could culminate in a visit to Cusco to experience Santurantikuy in person.