Learn About Peru » Puno Peru

A Historical Landmark in Puno

admin — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:20:28 +0000

Photo from Peru21

The church of Santa Cruz de Jerusalén in Puno was recently named one of the top 100 monuments of historical importance throughout the world. This special distinction will help Puno residents restore the building and preserve the architecture and art inside. In the future, this 16th century church will be a beautiful sightseeing destination. Peru is filled with historical buildings that are both educational and beautiful.

Puno, the Folkloric Center of Peru

admin — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:56:03 +0000

When you’re thinking of areas to visit on a trip to Peru, you should definitely consider Puno. Not only is it the way to get to Lake Titicaca, but Puno itself is officially know as the Folkloric Center of Peru. Traditional dance and music can always be found in Puno, especially during monthly festivals. Look at upcoming events listed for the Puno area while planning your trip, and you may find that a festival could be the highlight of your vacation. The traditional costumes and lively scenes are bound to intrigue travelers and give you a taste of Peruvian culture.

February Festival in Puno Peru

admin — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:09:45 +0000

The thing that I love about Peru is its cultural vibrancy. Peruvians are very passionate in the way they embrace and celebrate life. There are 3,000 festivals throughout the year and most of them are celebrations of thanksgiving by an agrarian people for another season of divine provision.

On the shores of Lake Titicaca sits the pastoral hamlet of Puno. It is known as the folk capital of the Americas and every year, for the first two weeks in February, the townspeople celebrate their abundance with the festival of the Virgen de la Candeleria. It is one of Peru’s more spectacular events, at once solemn and gay with its worshipful processions adorned with ornate costumes and masks accompanied by music and dancing throughout the town.

My husband’s mother was born in Puno and the family continues to have a home in this small town on the shores of Lake Titicaca. I spent a few days there last year during the February festival and enjoyed watching the procession through the town’s small Plaza de Armas. All bets are off during this season in Puno; children are up hours beyond their bedtime dancing in the streets along with their parents, usually in some extravagant costume. Alberto says that some of the townspeople save up all year long just to have the money to buy one of these incredibly colorful, elaborate costumes.

It is always a treat to witness the dancing in Peru, whether it’s Puno’s popular huayno or the marinera of Trujillo, especially for someone like me. I’m not likely to be out there myself, just not born with those particular genes, but I can appreciate all the more the joy that Peruvians express through their dance.