If you find yourself in Cusco, Peru, during the Christmas season, you’re in for a cultural treat: the Santurantikuy festival. This centuries-old tradition, celebrated every December 24th, offers a unique glimpse into Cusco’s vibrant heritage, blending indigenous Andean customs with Catholic influences. For both locals and visitors, Santurantikuy is an unforgettable experience full of art, spirituality, and community spirit. But what exactly is Santurantikuy, and why is it so special? Let’s dive in.
Santurantikuy (from the Quechua words “santu”, meaning saint, and “rantikuy”, meaning to sell) is an annual Christmas market that takes place in the Plaza Mayor of Cusco, the historical heart of the city. It is an incredible blend of religious devotion and local craftsmanship, where artisans from all over the region gather to sell a wide variety of hand-crafted items. These goods often represent scenes from the Nativity or traditional Andean beliefs.
What makes Santurantikuy even more interesting is its deep historical roots. It dates back to the 16th century, when the Spanish colonizers arrived in the region and merged indigenous traditions with Catholicism. The Andean people began to create nativity scenes (Nacimiento), incorporating elements from their own culture into the Christian story of Jesus’ birth.
Today, Santurantikuy is not just a market but a celebration of Cusco’s rich cultural fusion, where visitors can experience both artistic expression and religious devotion.
At the heart of the Santurantikuy festival is the Christmas market. On December 24th, the main square in Cusco becomes a bustling scene of colors, sounds, and smells. The market features hundreds of local artisans selling their handmade crafts. Some of the most iconic items include:
The tradition of Santurantikuy is deeply intertwined with the spirituality of Christmas in Cusco. While the Catholic church celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the Andean people also see the birth of Christ as a symbol of renewal and hope for the coming year.
The word Santurantikuy itself emphasizes the idea of selling or sharing sacred and religious objects. The market is not only about buying gifts or souvenirs but also about offering gratitude and honoring the divine. Many locals see the act of purchasing or selling an item at Santurantikuy as a form of spiritual exchange, where they give thanks for the blessings of the past year and ask for prosperity in the new one.
In fact, the market itself is viewed as a spiritual event. Before the festivities, many Cusqueños visit the San Blas neighborhood or the Cathedral of Cusco to pray, attend mass, and participate in religious rituals. Afterward, they make their way to the Plaza de Armas to join the rest of the community in celebrating the holiday with food, music, and dance.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Santurantikuy is how it blends Catholicism with the spiritual practices of the Quechua people. While many of the items sold at the market are tied to the Christian story of Christ’s birth, they are also influenced by Andean beliefs. For instance, some nativity scenes depict Pachamama (Mother Earth), an important deity in Andean spirituality, alongside Jesus and Mary, symbolizing the harmonious connection between the Christian and indigenous traditions.
The Andean concept of “Ayni” (reciprocity) is also evident during Santurantikuy. It’s believed that the exchange of goods at the market is not merely a financial transaction but a form of mutual support and spiritual connection between the seller and the buyer, as well as with the earth and the divine.
For the people of Cusco, Santurantikuy is much more than a commercial event. It’s a family gathering, where friends and loved ones come together to share in the joy of the season. For many, it’s a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Locals often visit the market to purchase handmade gifts for their loved ones, as well as to buy the final pieces for their Nativity scenes that they’ll place in their homes.
The event is also an important community celebration, where the streets of Cusco come alive with the sounds of Andean music, dancing, and the joyous cheers of people of all ages. The spirit of camaraderie and generosity is palpable, making it a perfect example of Cusco’s warm, welcoming culture.
If you’re in Cusco during the Christmas season, Santurantikuy is an absolute must-see. Not only does it provide a unique opportunity to buy one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted souvenirs, but it also offers a chance to immerse yourself in the living history and vibrant traditions of the city. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or spirituality, this festival has something to offer.
Moreover, Santurantikuy is a celebration of Peruvian identity. It’s a beautiful testament to how, even in the modern world, traditional customs continue to thrive and evolve, preserving the rich cultural heritage of Cusco and the Andean region.
Santurantikuy is a time-honored tradition that stands as a symbol of Cusco’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. By visiting the market, you’re not only participating in a local celebration but also witnessing the fusion of indigenous Andean and Catholic traditions that make this city so unique. As you walk through the Plaza Mayor, with the scent of hot chocolate in the air and the colorful crafts surrounding you, you’ll understand why Santurantikuy is one of the most important and beloved Christmas customs in Cusco.
