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Introduction Written by Joe Lara
Without a doubt, Peru is one of the most amazing countries in the world. Nowhere but here can you surf magnificent waves, sand-board the highest sand dune in the world, climb towering snow-capped peaks, explore virgin jungle terrain, and experience an incredible culinary adventure. Narrowing the abundance of reasons to 101 proved to be an extremely difficult task. The 101 reasons listed below have been researched and highlighted based on the various suggestions submitted by our readers. While I am sure most would agree with the reasons listed below, others may feel some have been left out. And I believe that is a good thing because there are more than 101 reasons to be proud of Peru. Enjoy our "101 Reasons to be Proud of Peru" and please feel free to share it with friends and family who will also find these reasons interesting and enlightening.
Copyright Š 2007 by Peru Experience S.A.C Illustrations copyright 2007 by Peru Experience S.A.C Editor in Chief: Carsten Korch Photography credits: Prom Peru, Pilar Pedraza, National Association of Owners and Breeders of Peruvian Paso Horse. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced-mechanically, electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying-without offering credit to LivingInPeru.com. Cover and book design by: Carmen Dominguez Content by: Millie Coquis Cristina Espejo Diana P. Olano Virginia Velasco Ordoùez Israel Ruiz LivingInPeru.com Av. Javier Prado Oeste 1586 Office # 401, San Isidro Lima 27, Peru
Index Gastronomy Ceviche, Inka Kola, Chicha Morada.........................
Pag 3
............. Pisco and Pisco Sour, Chifa, Lucuma Fruit Peruvian Cuisine, Paiche, Chirimoya fruit...........................
Pag 5
Pag 2
.............
Pag 4
Huacatay
Personalities Hernando de Soto, Yma Sumac, Gastón Acurio...........
Pag 8
Pag 7
............. Martín Chambi, Pedro Paulet, Maria Reiche Mario Vargas Llosa, Chabuca Granda Juan Diego Floréz.............................................
Pag 9
Pag 10 ............. Susana Baca, Mario Testino, Túpac Amaru II Miguel Grau, Francisco Bolognesi, César Vallejo.........
Pag 11
Pag 12 ............. Inca Garcilaso de la Vega
Sports Figures Alex Olmedo, Mauro Mina, Davis Cup World Group 2008...............................
Pag 14
Pag 15 ............. Julio Granda, Sofía Mulanovich, Sub 17 Team
Historical Caral, Chan Chan, Chankillo..............................
Pag 17
Pag 18 ............. Chavín de Huantar, The Paracas Culture, The Nazca Lines The Lord of Sipán, Huari, The Kuelap fortress..................................
Pag 19
Pag 20 ............. Machu Picchu, Chasquis, Sacsayhuaman Choquequirao, Ruinas de Tambomachay, The suspension bridge.......
Pag 21
Pag 22 ............. The Inca Trail, Ollantaytambo, Ticlio Huayllay's Bosque de Piedra, El Peruano is Latin America's oldest newspaper, The University of San Marcos..............................
Pag 24 ............. Saint Rose of Lima , Saint Martin of Porres
Pag 23
Flora and Fauna Maca, u単a de Gato and Hoja de Coca , Camu-Camu, Pima cotton.........................
Pag 26
Pag 27 ............. Sacha Inchi Oil, The Rocoto chili pepper, Tomatoes are from Peru
Puya raimondi, The Macaw hangout, Vicu単a ...........
Pag 28
Pag 29 ............. The Andean Cock of the Rock,
The Andean Cock of the Rock, Rich in mineral resources The Potato, Ecological and Biodiversity, 1800 bird species call Peru home............................
Pag 30
Peruvian Traditions The Peruvian Cajon, Plaza Acho, Plaza Acho...........
Pag 32
Pag 33 ............. Se単or de los Milagros, Peruvian Handicraft, Peruvian Handicraft Traditional Folkloric clothing, Qoyllur Rit'i, Qoyllur Rit'i...................................
Pag 34
Pag 35 ............. Virgen de la Candelaria, Holy Week in Ayacucho Inca Garcilaso de la Vega
Geographic Alpamayo Mountain, Peru has some of the best surfing in the world, Cerro Blanco .................................................
Pag 37
Pag 38 ............. Rio Abiseo National Park, The Andes Mountains The Quelccaya Ice Cap, Goctca Waterfalls, Man炭 Biosphere Reserve....................................
Pag 39
Peru is the source of the Amazon River, Pag 40 ............. Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons, Lake Titicaca
Cities Arequipa, Cusco, Trujillo.................................
Pag 42
Pag 43 ............. Lima, Tarapoto, Iquitos Piura, Chiclayo............................................
Pag 44
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Gastronomy
- your everyday companion
Gastronomy | 2
1. Cevich Ceviche is from Peru!
1.
Perhaps the th dish that is most representative of Peru, this simple, yet spectacular dish fuses ingredients both native and foreign to the South spectacula American nation. Fish and seafood are perfectly matched with red onions, peppers, and marinated in lime juice (brought by the Spanish) Peruvian chili c to make the country's most famous gastronomical dish. Recipe: Ceviche C de Lenguado, Flounder Ceviche/Marinated Fresh Fish Ingredie Ingredients 1 kilo or o 2.2 lbs of Flounder or sole filets (no skin or bones) and cut into small bite size strips med 2 medium Spanish red onions peeled, halved and thinly sliced 4 Ají Amarillo seeded, veined and thinly sliced clo 2 cloves of garlic crushed cu of fresh key lime juice 1 cup t 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper ½ cup of minced parsley Preparation Mix all together and toss. Let macerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator. Stir before serving
Inka Kola, the iconic Peruvian soft drink
2.
Sometimes referred to as having a pineapple/bubble gum m flavor, this bubbly yellow beverage made the powerful Coca-Cola ca-Cola company follow the slogan “If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.” .” And that it did when it purchased 50% of the Corporacion Lindley ndley (Inka Kola owners) in 1999. Whether at a Chifa or at a kiosk, iosk, Inka Kola is by far the most consumed soda in Peru.
3.
Chicha Morada Chicha morada mora is a refreshing drink made from purple corn. It is usually served cold or at room temperature and is sweet in taste. In Lima, chicha morada is popular in restaurants and is sometimes consumed more than soda. The very popul is also good for reducing high blood pressure and it has purple corn co antioxidants. antioxida
Gastronomy | 3
Pisco and Pisco Sour
4.
Pisco, a brandy that results from the distillation of fermented fresh grapes "mosto" or "must" (the grape juice or pulp), was the maritime port where the export of the distilled Peruvian spirit was carried out. The spirit was stored in the famous "botijas" (clay storage jugs), crafted by a tribe of potters, The Piskos, whose earthen containers carried their same name. Pisco is the basis for Peru's most famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour. The iconic Peruvian-drink has taken on o a whole new social persona in Peruvian culture: It now has its own day dedicated to it, "Pisco Sour Day" is the first Saturday of every February. de
Pisco Sour Recipe: Ingredients 3 oz. Pisco Quebranta 1 oz. Lime Juice 1 oz. Jarabe de Goma (or sugar)Dash Egg whiteIce Preparation Put all ingredients in a shaker and shake for 10 seconds. Serve. Decoration A couple of drops of Angostura Bitters
5.
Chifa Chif Chifa, or Peruvian style Chinese food, is among the most popular foods in the Andean nation. With literally one Chifa restaurant on every street corner, r, this has long been one of the most widely eaten fast foods in the countryy and especially in the capital city of Lima where the Chifa epicenter lies in the gritty Calle Capon. Chifa is also very representative of the Peruvian culture in that hat it contains a wealth of different influences and flavors.
6.
Lucuma fruit Lucuma, a subtropical fruit which originated in Peru, is one of the most popular fruits among Peruvians. Green on the outside and bright f yellow/or yellow/orange on the inside, its sublime flavor makes it the perfect snack on its ow own or as an ice cream flavor. Drawings of the Peruvian fruit have been found on pottery and artifacts created by ancient Peruvian f civilizations. Aside from ice cream, it is also used to flavor milk, yogurt, civiliza candy, and desserts.
Gastronomy | 4
7.
Paiche, one of the largest fresh water fish in the world The paic paiche (Arapaima gigas) is a South American tropical freshwater fish native to the Amazon region. It is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, rreportedly with a maximum length in excess of 3 m (9.8 ft.) and weighs up to 200 kg (440 lb.). As one of the most sought after food fish species specie in South America, it is often captured by spearing for export. Consequently, large paiche of more than 2 m are seldom found in the wild Conse today. today The paiche's diet consists of other fish or even small animals, including birds. The fish also has the ability to breathe air from the inclu surface due to a lung-like lining of its throat, an advantage in sur oxygen-deprived water that is often found in the Amazon River. This oxy fish fis is, therefore, able to survive extensive drought periods by gulping air a and burrowing in the mud or sand of the swamps.
8.
Peruvian Cuisine Peru is famous throughout South America for its food. As a major fishing nation, fish is abundant and prepared with imagination. The primary ingredientss found in nearly every Peruvian dish are rice, potatoes, chicken, pork, lamb and nd fish. Most of these meals include one of the different kinds of "aji", or Peruvian an hot peppers, which are mainly : yellow aji pepper, red aji pepper and red rocoto pepper. Chicken, pork and lamb were introduced to Peru 500 years ago when the Spaniards came to America. Other ingredients, like potatoess and tomatoes, were already being grown in the Peruvian Andes and were taken en by the Spaniards back to Europe. Peru has 468 different dishes, which according ording to The Guinness Book of World Records, is the largest variety in the world. d.
Chirimoya fruit Chirimoy
9.
The chirimo chirimoya, native of Peru, is fleshy, soft, sweet, white in color and has a custard-like custard-lik texture, that gives it its secondary name, custard apple. Some characterize the flavor as a blend of pineapple, mango and strawberry. characteri Others describe it as tasting like commercial bubblegum. Similar in size to de a grapefruit, it has large, glossy, dark seeds that are easily removed. The grapef seeds are a poisonous if crushed open; one should also avoid eating the skin. When ripe, the skin is green and gives slightly to pressure, similar W to the avocado. Ripe fruit may be kept in the refrigerator, but it is best to let immature chirimoyas ripen at room temperature. If the skin is brown, brow then it is good to eat and has ripened. Fresh chirimoya contains about abou 15% sugar (about 60kcal/100g) and some vitamin C (up to 20mg/100g). 20m
Gastronomy | 5
10. Huacatay Huacatay, or sometimes referred to as “Peruvian Black Mint,� is an herb which grows naturally in the Andes. It has been used throughout the region's history ory as a flavor additive to food. Today, huacatay is used in everything from chili sauces to a variety of regional dishes, with the most flavorful being perhaps haps the delectable pachamanca.
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Personalities
- your everyday companion
Personalities | 7
Hernando de Soto - Peruvian economist Hernand
11.
Hernando de d Soto is a Peruvian economist who is considered to be one of the thinkers in the modern world. De Soto, who was educated brightest economic e Switzerland after his father was exiled from Peru, has had a number of in Switzer important positions in his career such as Managing Director of the Universal importan Engineering Corporation (Continental Europe's largest consulting engineering Engineer the Principal of the Swiss Bank Corporation Consultant Group, and as a firm), th governor of Peru's Central Reserve Bank. Today, de Soto is President of the governo Lima-based Institute for Liberty and Democracy (ILD), regarded by "The Lima-b Economist" as one of the two most important think tanks in the world. Econo
12.
Yma Sumac - Soprano Born in Cajamarca, Peru on Sep 10, 1922, Yma Sumac is one of the most acclaimed sopranos of her generation. Specifically a coloratura soprano, Sumac umac is heralded for her wide-ranging voice which frequently spanned 3 octaves, and reached peaks of four and an astonishing 5 octaves. According to Peruvian uvian government records, Sumac is a direct descendant of the last great Inca king Atahualpa. After having lived much of her life outside of the country, Sumac mac returned to Peru in 2006 and was decorated by then-Peruvian President dent Alejandro Toledo with the “Orden del Sol.�
GastĂłn Acurio - Peru's ' culinary li ambassador b d
13.
Gaston A Acurio has shot to super stardom in Peru thanks to his very popular show and his very prosperous restaurants, among them the cable cooking co Astrid and Gaston which has expanded into several cities in much acclaimed ac As a young law student in Spain, Acurio decided to follow his the region. reg heart and dropped out of law school to pursue his passion as a chef in Paris, France, all the while keeping his decision a secret from his parents. He is now the face of Peru's gastronomic boom and his passion to make Peruvian cuisine one of the most popular in the world undoubtedly is Peru reason enough to put him on this list. reas
Personalities | 8
MartĂn C Chambi
14.
Martin Cham Chambi (1891-1973) was a photographer of indigenous ancestry born in of Lake Titicaca. Considered the only major indigenous Coaza, north no Latin-American photographer of his time, his work is recognized for its Latin-Ame profound social, historical and ethnic testimonies, leaving a great record of and urban societies of the Peruvian Andes. His work includes the agrarian agra commercial pieces, such as portraits of wealthy families and important both co events, and his personal, more anthropological pieces, mostly of indigenous people, local traditions and archaeological remains. It was only after his people death in 1973 that his photographs have really become appreciated and admired all over the world. admi
15. Pedro Paulet Born in Arequipa, Peru in 1874, Pedro Paulet, a Peruvian scientist, is regraded ded as the unofficial father of the modern rocket propulsion system. Reports suggest uggest he first tested his liquid-fueled rocket system in 1895, almost 30 years before efore U.S. Scientist Robert H. Goddard – regarded as the father of modern rocketry, ketry, launched his liquid-fueled rocket system in 1926.
Maria Reiche Re
16.
Maria Reich Reiche (1903-1998) was a German-born mathematician and archaeologist her life to researching the Nazca lines in Peru. In 1932 she who dedicated dedic began work wo as a nanny and teacher for the children of a German consul in In 1934 she lost one of her fingers due to gangrene. The same Cuzco, Peru. P year she became a teacher in Lima and did scientific translations. When War II broke out, she decided not to return to Germany. In 1940 she World W became an assistant of the American archaeologist Paul Kosok who had becam discovered the Nazca lines. Around 1946 she began to map the figures in discov Nazca. When Kosok left in 1948 she continued the work and mapped the Nazc area. Reiche theorized that the builders of the lines used them as a sun area calendar and an observatory for astronomical cycles. Because the lines cal can be clearly seen only from above, she convinced the Peruvian Air ca Force to help her with photographic surveys. She spent most of her Fo ttime alone in her home in Nazca. She explained her theories in the book The Mystery of the Desert and used the profits from the book to campaign for the preservation of the desert and to hire guards and assistants.
Personalities | 9
17.
Mario Vargas Va Llosa – One of Latin America's leading novelist novelists One of Peru's Pe most important literary contributors, the Arequipa born novelist has written writte numerous books, stories, and essays during a writing career that has spanned spann decades. Llosa crossed over into the Peruvian political scene and became a strong opponent of Alan Garcia's attempt to nationalize Peru's banking industry (1987-during Garcia's first term). After Alan Garcia's disastrous term (1985-1990), Llosa officially ran for president in 1990 but disastr lost a runoff election to then little-known agricultural engineer Alberto Fujimori. Fujim
18. Chabuca Granda María Isabel Granda Larco, better known as Chabuca Granda, was a beloved eloved Peruvian singer and composer. She created and interpreted a vast number ber of Criollo waltzes with Afro-Peruvian rhythms. Her best known song is "La flor or de la canela". Towards the end of her career, Chabuca Granda incorporated rated Afro-Peruvian rhythms into her work. Afro-Peruvian music, while popular, was not considered "high art" due to the prevalent racism and devaluation n of Afro-Peruvian culture. She masterfully blended the suggestive and colorful orful rhythms into her work, enriching Peruvian popular music. Granda's song "La Flor De La Canela" has become an anthem for the city of Lima. Granda nda worked with a lengthy list of influential guitarists including Oscar Aviles, es, Martin Torres, Lucho Gonzalez, Alvaro Lagos, and Felix Casaverde.
19.
Juan D Diego Flórez – The heir to Pavarotti Peru's wo world-renowned tenor has been one of the country's best success stories. His H conquest of the opera industry is a story to make any fan of music burst with pride. Florez, born in 1973 in Lima, studied at Lima's w Conservatorio Nacional de Música at age 17. He then attended the Curtis Conserv Institute Institut in Philadelphia on a scholarship. A number of performances led him to blossom into one of the best regarded tenors in today's industry. He has blos performed in the most prestigious venues in the industry, including La perfor Scala in Milan, Italy, where he broke a 74-year tradition of not giving encore enco performances when he treated the audience to a reprisal "Ah! mes amis" amis with its nine high Cs.
Personalities | 10
Susana Baca B
20 .
Susana Baca de la Colina is a prominent Peruvian singer of Afro-Peruvian descent. been a key figure in the revival of Afro-Peruvian music within Peru, She has be which, like the culture that produced it, had previously been little recognized, but which is now regarded as an important part of Peruvian culture. Baca has contributed much to its international popularity, which began in 1995 with the contribut release of the compilation CD The Soul of Black Peru. Her songs are poetic composed by some of Latin America's premier poets, with whom (with lyrics ly collaborates), rich with evocative imagery, and her voice is delicate yet she col soulful. She has an elegant and engaging stage presence, gliding gracefully soulful about the stage while singing. In 2002, Susana Baca won the Latin Grammy Award for Best Folk Album, for her Lamento Negro CD. Awar
21. Mario Testino Mario Testino is a world-renowned fashion photographer. He grew up in Lima a and after studying economics (Universidad del Pacífico), law (PUCP) and international tional relations (UC San Diego), he moved to London where he studied photography. Today he is highly successful and does fashion shoots for Vogue, V and Vanity Fair, among mong others, and has photographed many celebrities and models including Gisele isele Bündchen, Jude Law, Madonna and Diana, Princess of Wales. He is known forr his bold fashion photography and his creative ad campaigns.
Túpac Am Amaru II
22 .
Túpac Amar Amaru II (March 19, 1742 in Tinta, Cuzco, Peru – executed in Cusco 1781) — born José Gabriel Condorcanqui Noguera — was the leader May 18, 17 indigenous uprising in 1780 against the Spanish conquest of the Inca of an indig Amaru II's rebellion was the first major uprising against the Empire. Túpac T in two centuries. It was suppressed after some successes Spanish colonists c like the Battle of Sangarará and he was soon captured. Although unsuccessful, he later became a mythical figure in the Peruvian struggle unsucce independence and indigenous rights movement as well as an for ind inspiration to a myriad of causes in Peru. inspira
Personalities | 11
Miguel Grau
23 .
Miguel Ma María Grau Seminario (Piura, Peru, July 27, 1834 ) was a renowned Peruvian naval officer and hero of the Naval Battle of Angamos during the War (1879-1884). He was known as the "El Caballero de los Mares" of the Pacific P (Spanish for "Knight of the Seas" or "Gentleman of the Seas" for his chivalry and is held in high esteem by both colleagues and opponents. At the Battle Iquique, Captain Grau rescued the crew of a ship just sunk by the of Iqu Peruvian Huáscar and then wrote condolences to the widow of his Peruv opponent Arturo Prat, returning his sword and personal effects. At the oppo port of Antofagasta, after sneaking upon an enemy ship, he courteously asked the crew to abandon ship before opening fire. Admiral Grau was aske killed by an armour-piercing shell fired upon Huáscar during the Naval kill Battle of Angamos on October 8, 1879. Although most of his body was Bat not recovered, his remains were buried with honours in Chile and in no 1958 brought back to Peru. A portrait of Admiral Grau is on display at 19 tthe museum ship Huáscar in Chile, along with portraits of two Chilean ccommanders who were killed on his deck. During the year 2000, Miguel Grau was recognized as the "Peruvian of the Millennium" by popular vote.
24 . Francisco Bolognesi Francisco Bolognesi Cervantes was a Peruvian military hero. When the War of the Pacific began in 1878 (Peru and Bolivia fighting Chile), Bolognesi, after having aving retired from the military at 62, rejoined the Peruvian Army and was active ve in actions against the Chilean forces, including the Battles of Dolores and Tarapacá cá in November, 1879. In April, 1880, he was placed in command of Arica.. He commanded the Peruvian forces surrounded in Arica by Chilean troops followingg the Chilean victory at Tacna. He organized and led a spirited defense of the port city by about 1,600 men against over 5,300 Chilean troops with extensive naval aval support. When Chile demanded his surrender he replied: “Tengo deberes sagrados ados que cumplir y los cumpliré hasta quemar el último cartucho" ("I have sacred duties ties to fulfill, and I will fulfill them until I fire the last round"). He and about 1,000 000 Peruvian soldiers died in Arica's defense.
César Vallejo
25.
Cesar Vallejo was born in Santiago de Chuco, a remote village in the Peruvian Andes. He is considered to be one of the most heralded poetic minds in 20th century poetry. True to his trade, his life was filled with many hardships, such as serving a 150-day prison sentence in his hometown for allegedly instigating a partisan skirmish and also, living in extreme poverty in Paris, France. "The Complete Posthumous Poetry of César Vallejo" won the National Book Award for translation in 1979.
Personalities | 12
26 . Inca Garcilaso de la Vega Garcilaso de la Vega was an illustrious Peruvian poet and acclaimed writer on the subject of the Incas. He is more commonly known as "El Inca" Garcilaso de la Vega, or simply "El Inca". A native Quechua speaker born in Cuzco, Garcilaso cilaso wrote accounts of Inca life, history, and the conquest by the Spanish. It was as in Spain that Garcilaso wrote his famous Comentarios Reales de los Incas (1609) 609) based on stories he had been told by his Inca relatives when he was a child ld in Cusco. The Comentarios contained two sections: the first about Inca life, and the second about the Spanish conquest of Peru. Many years later, when the guerilla group led by Tupac Amaru II gained traction, a royal edict by Carlos os III of Spain banned the Comentarios from being published in Lima due to its "dangerous" content. The book was not printed again in the Americas until ntil 1918, but copies continued to be circulated.
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Sports Figures
- your everyday companion
Sports Figures | 14
27.
Alex Ol Olmedo Luis Alejandro Aleja ("Alex") Rodríguez Olmedo (born March 24, 1936 in Arequipa) is a former tennis player from Peru, who was ranked as the number one amateur player in i the world in 1959. He won the Wimbledon and Australian Open singles titles in 1959, and was a finalist in the US Open Championship in the same year, losing to the same person he defeated in the Australian Open. At y Wimbledon, he defeated Rod Laver in 3 sets in 71 minutes 6-4, 6-3, 6-1. He Wimbl was inducted into the international Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987. Alex i Olmedo Olme was the first Latin American to win the Wimbledon men's singles title. title
28 . Mauro Mina Mauro Mina was a Peruvian Light Heavyweight boxer known ass the "Bombardero de Chincha", and remembered as the best Peruvian boxer of the twentieth century. He was born in Chincha on November 22, 1933. As an amateur he obtained the Latin American championship in the middleweight eight division in February of 1952 in Lima, Peru. In 1960 he was proclaimed South outh American Light Heavyweight Champion, a title he held until he vacated it in 1966. In 1962, after defeating Eddie Cotton by decision in 10 rounds in Lima, ima, he had been ranked the number one contender by the prestigious Ring Magazine. He was ready for a shot at the Light Heavyweight title held d by Harold Johnson but the discovery of a retinal injury acquired in one of his previous fights (allegedly against Cuban Lino Rendon) prevented such uch challenge from ever taking place. After his retirement in 1965, he became ea boxing professor in his own gym, and is remembered as a former gloryy in Peru. He even had a song composed for him by Peruvian singer Chabuca Granda: Puños de Oro.
29 .
Davis C Cup World Group 2008 For the first f time in its 34 years participating in the Davis Cup, Peru classified for the World Group after defeating Belarus 4-1. This historical event makes W Peru's team one of the 16 best tennis teams in the world. The team members membe are Luis Horna, Iván Miranda, Mauricio Echazú and Matías Silva, led by captain Jaime Yzaga. For the World Group First Round, they will play against Spain, two-time winner of the tournament. a
Sports Figures | 15
30 .
Julio Gr Granda – Peruvian Grandmaster Chess Player P Julio Ere Eresto Granda Zuniga, born in the Peruvian provincial town of Camana, is one of o Peru's most decorated and respected Chess players. In fact, his skills, talent, and success in the game earned him the title of Grandmaster Chess Player.
31. Sofía Mulanovich – Peru's surfing queen Sofia Mulanovich, known as 'La Gringa' locally for her fair features, gained ained notoriety in the surfing world for her outstanding performances at the e top surfing competitions in the world. So far, the highlight of her career came me in 2004 when Mulanovich, who started her ocean lover affair when she was 5 years old in the northern beach community of Mancora, became the ISA's top ranked nked female surfer in the world. Telefonica del Peru and Roxy from Quicksilver are among her sponsors.
Sub 17 Team
32 .
Peru's National Sub-17 team, also known as the "jotitas", has given the country high hopes for the future of Peruvian-football with their amazing performance during the FIFA Sub-17 World Cup Tournament this year. With the help of Captain Juan Jose Ore, the team demonstrated aggressive counter-attacks that left their opponents, such as South Korea and Argentina, in the dust. They managed to make it to the quarterfinals, but were eliminated by worthy-opponent Ghana. Still, they left South Korea with their heads held high and were welcomed with open arms by a country that was proud to call them their own.
Historical
- your everyday companion
Historical | 17
Caral: T The oldest citadel in the Americas
33 .
Located just jus 182 kilometers to the north of Lima, Caral has been labeled as the known city in the Americas. Scientists have dated the site as far back as oldest know 2627 B.C., B.C. just a few years before construction began on the Egyptian Pyramids! It sits in the Supe Valley, some 23 kilometers inland from the Pacific and 350 meters above sea level. The urban settlement occupies an area Ocean an and consists of a central zone of monumental architecture, of 65 hectares, he including both residential and non-residential buildings. The city’s nucleus is comprised a series of 32 monumental structures arranged between compris depressions laid out in accordance with the residential complexes that depress surround them. Towards the valley, on the edge of the alluvial terrace, a surroun group of small chambers can be distinguished. These were once an extensive residential area, removed from the public center. exten
Chan Chan: The largest mud-brick settlement in the he Americas
34 .
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the capital of the Kingdom of Chimor,, also known as the Chimu Empire. The city represents America's largest pre-hispanic panic mud-brick settlement. Its complexity has come to light only after years rs of intensive excavations. This large city covers 7.7 square miles and is centered ed on a 2.3 square mile urban core dominated by a series of huge enclosures - the palaces of the Chimu kings.
Chankillo: Americas oldest observatory
35.
Located some 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the north of Lima, sits the Western Hemisphere's oldest known full-service solar observatory, according to a report in Peru's El Comercio newspaper. The important archaeological discovery contains 13 stone pillars that sit along a coastal mountain side. The observatory, which is believed to be approximately 2,300 years old, suggests the existence of a sophisticated culture that used the complex arrangement of the stone pillars and the sun for political and ceremonial purposes. An older solar observatory, just to the north of Lima, is reported to be 4,300 years old. However, the Chankillo solar observatory is believed to be the first full-service observatory in the New World. Dubbed the "13 Towers of Chankillo," the site's alignments cover the entire solar year, something which is uncommon among the other ancient observatories.
Historical | 18
Chavín d de Huantar
36 .
The archaeo archaeological site Chavín de Huantar was constructed around 900 B.C. by the pre-Inca pre-Inc culture, the Chavín. The site, which is located 250 km north of at an elevation of 3150 meters and has been designated a UNESCO Lima, is a Heritage Site. Chavín de Huantar represents the first phase in Chavín World Her widespread and recognizable artistic style in the Andes. Reliefs art, the first f from the archaeological site are on display in the Museo de la Nación in Lima.
37.
The Paracas Culture The Paracas culture is one of oldest civilizations located in present day Peru, reportedly to have thrived on the Paracas Penninsula between 600 B.C. and d 175 B.C. Much of what is known about the Paracas civilization has been learned from the numerous necropolises found in the area. The necropolises, first studied ed by Peruvian archaeologist Julio Tello, provided evidence of an intricate and advanced Pre-Colombian civilization.
The Nazca Lines
38 .
Truly one of Peru's most mysterious attractions, these giant geoglyphs are located in one of Peru's most arid and driest regions, the Nazca Desert. According to historians, the Nazca culture built the lines some time between 200 B.C. And 700 A.D. The lines, made by fusing iron oxide coated pebbles, stretch over an area close to 500 square kilometers (200 miles). What makes the lines truly mysterious is the reason behind why they were built. There are many theories out there which try to explain the logic behind their existence. German-born archaeologist Maria Reicheven spent much of her life studying and fighting to preserve the fragile nature of the lines from natural and human interference. Her theory indicated the Nazca people used the lines as a sun calendar and an observatory for astronomical cycles. Others, such as Swiss author Erich von Däniken, theorized the lines were landing strips for alien spacecrafts, suggesting interaction between the Nazca people and extraterrestrial lifeforms.
Historical | 19
The Lord of Sipån – The King Tut of the Americas
39 .
The discovery of the Lord of Sipan has been one of the most impressive and important findings in the region, with experts comparing the finding to that of Egypt's King Tut. The Lord of Sipan was shown to the world in 1987 and a number of magazines such as Time and National Geographic featured the historic discovery in their magazines. The Lord of Sipan reigned over the Moche Civilization around 200 years A.D. The artifacts found in Sipan's tomb show the advanced abilities the Moche had with several metals.
40 . Huari The Wari (Spanish Huari) was a Middle Horizon civilization that flourished in the Andes in the south of modern-day Peru, from about 500 to 1200 A.D. The capital tal city of the same name is located near the modern city of Ayacucho, Peru. This city ty was the center of a civilization that covered much of the highlands and coast of modern Peru. Early on, their territory expanded to include the ancient oracle center ter of Pachacamac, though it seems to have remained largely autonomous. Then later ater it expanded to include much of the territory of the earlier Moche and later Chimu cultures. The best-preserved remnants of the Huari Culture exist near the town wn of Quinua at the Wari Ruins. Also well-known are the Wari ruins of Pikillaqta ("Flea "Flea Town") a short distance southeast of Cusco on route to Lake Titicaca, which dates from the Wari period before the Incas rose to power in the region.
The Kuelap fortress
41.
The Kuelap fortress was created in all likelihood, by the Chachapoya Culture sometime around 800 A.D. The site consists of over 400 buildings, many of which are still in viewable conditions today. It is believed the Chachapoya built the fortress to protect themselves from invading tribes/peoples such as the Huari. The site is 600 meters in width, 110 meters in length, and its walls are as high as 19 meters. It is located at 3000 meters above sea level (just shy of 10,000 feet) and is comparable to other historical sites of the Americas in size.
Historical | 20
Machu Picchu: Peru's Wonder
42 .
What can be said about this amazing attraction that hasn't already been said? The crown jewel of Peru's abundant tourist attractions, Machu Picchu was recently recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in the recent internet based contest. The Inca sanctuary sits at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level. The site was constructed around 1450 and is believed to have been abandoned approximately 100 years later. Jungle vegetation kept the area hidden from the Spanish, and centuries later Yale professor Hiram Bingham 'rediscovered' the Inca sanctuary in 1911 (though many area residents knew of its existence before Bingham's arrival). Today, Machu Picchu is Peru's largest and most important tourist attraction.
43 .
Chasquis – The Inca Express Chasquis were highly-trained couriers who served as deliverymen throughout the vast Inca road system. They delivered messages and supplies from one point to another other by running at continuous paces. Tambos or rest areas, were located along the he road system and often contained food and water for the hungry and tired Chasquis. s. True examples of power, endurance, and efficiency, Chasquis could travel from Cuzco zco to Quito within a week. Chasquis were trained in attack and self defense tactics tics to help guarantee delivery of their messages/goods.
44 .
Sacsayhuaman: The Inca fortress Sacsayh Sacsayhua Sacsayhuaman, located near old town Cusco, is thought to have been a fortress-style structure of the Inca empire. Others suggest the site was built to fortress-s resemble the head of a puma, which is noticeable from above. Despite the controversy regarding the reasoning behind its creation, historians are even controv puzzled by the intricate stonework created by the Incas. The space more p between the stones is so thin that a sheet of paper cannot pass through. betwe The precision of the complex is striking given the tools and technology available to the Incas at the time of Sacsayhuaman's construction. Today, avai the site is used to start off the Inti Raymi festival on June 24th every year. yea
Historical | 21
Choquequirao – The other Machu Picchu
45 .
Choquequirao, located in Cusco, is a partly excavated ruined city of the Incas in the south of Peru. It bears a striking similarity in structure and architecture to Machu Picchu and is referred to as its 'sister'. Choquequirao admits far fewer tourists than its sister ruin but it is no less delightful and is a good alternative to the sometimes overcrowded Machu Picchu. The ruins at Choquequirao are comprised of buildings and terraces at different levels, from the lower level Sunch'u Pata to the truncated hill top. The hill top has been leveled and ringed with stones to form a platform of 30x50 meters wide.
46 .
Tambomachay Ruins 8 KM northeast of Cusco lies the Inca Baths of Tambomachay. The archaeological ological site, also known as Baño de la Ñusta, was apparently one of the favorite avorite resting-places of the Incas. They used it as a watering place and as one of the pillars of the defense system of the Valley of Cusco. The natural rocky formations ations that make up the site were the objects of worship and magical customs ms in indigenous traditions. Tambochay's hydraulic system, one of the reasons the Incas worshiped water, transports clean water from springs and thermal sourcess the whole year.
The suspension bridge – Inca invention
47.
Inca Rope bridges were simple suspension bridges over canyons and gorges to provide access for the Inca Empire. Bridges of this type were suitable for use since the Inca people did not use wheeled transport - traffic was limited to pedestrians and livestock. These bridges were an intrinsic part on the Inca road system and are an excellent example of Inca innovation in engineering. They were frequently used by Chasqui runners delivering messages throughout the Inca Empire. The construction of these bridges amounted to a pair of stone anchors on each side of the canyon with massive cables of woven ichu grass linking these two pylons together. Adding to this construction, two additional cables acted as guardrails. The cables which supported the foot-path were reinforced with plaited branches. This multi-structure system made these bridges strong enough to even carry the Spaniards while riding horses after they arrived. However, these massive bridges were so heavy that they tended to sag in the middle, and this caused them to sway in high winds.
Historical | 22
The Inca Trail
48 .
Among the many roads and trails constructed in pre-Columbian South America, the Inca road system (El Camino Inca) of Peru was the most extensive. Traversing the Andes mountains and reaching heights of over 5,000 m (16,500 feet) above sea level, the trails connected the regions of the Inca empire from the northern provincial capital in Quito, Ecuador past the modern city of Santiago, Chile in the south. The Inca road system covered approximately 22,500 km (14,000 mi) and provided access to over three million km² of territory. Because the Incas did not make use of the wheel for transportation, and did not have horses until the arrival of the Spanish in Peru in the 16th century, the trails were used almost exclusively by people walking, sometimes accompanied by pack animals, usually the llama.
Ollantaytambo ct of Ollantaytambo is a town in southern Peru, located in the district Ollantaytambo, province of Urubamba, Cusco region. It is approximately 60 0 km eters to the northwest of the city of Cusco, situated at an altitude of 2792 meters above sea level. It is best known for its ruins, the only major site where the Incas defeated the Spaniards in battle.
50 .
49 .
Ticlio: One of the highest rail stations in the world Ticlio is a railway crossing loop in Peru whose main claim to fame is that it was, until 2006, the highest station in the world on a standard gauge railway with an elevation at 15,610 ft. above sea level. It lies on the Pacific side of the Andes. On the approach line to Ticlio, eight tunnels were necessary in a stretch of less than two miles.
Historical | 23
Huayllay's Bosque de Piedra
51.
Huayllay’s Bosque de Piedra (Rock Forest) dates back to the Tertiary or Cenozoic Age, close to 70 million years old. The geological formation, located in the province of Pasco in central Peru, is a result of natural erosion processes and the movement of glaciers. In the middle of the forest is a lovely water spring with supposed healing properties. The "Rock Garden of the Andes" also features a variety of wild flora with diverse medicinal properties, and fauna such as mammals, birds, and fish. fish.
52. El Peruano is Latin America's oldest newspaper paper Peru's national gazette, El Peruano, is officially Latin America's oldest newspaper still in circulation. Started in 1825, El Peruano, founded by Simon Bolivar, mainly rrent focuses on reporting goverment news, but also reports on politics and current happenings.
53.
The University of San n Marcos – The longest running university in the Americas Although many claim that the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) or the National University of San Marcos or University of Saint Mark is the oldest university of the Americas, it is still somewhat disputed. Some experts believe the title belongs to the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, founded in 1538 in what is now the Dominican Republic. However, there is general consensus that UNMSM is in fact the longest running university in the Americas. Some of its famous alumni include: Daniel Carrion (Medical researcher), Valentin Paniagua (former President of Peru), Mario Vargas Llosa (Peruvian novelist), and Bernado O'Higgins (Chile's first president).
Historical | 24
54 .
Saint Rose of Lima – The first saint of the Americas St. Rose was beatified by Pope Clement IX in 1667 and canonized in 1671 by Pope Clement X as the first Catholic in the western hemisphere to be canonized by the Roman Church. Her shrine, alongside those of her friend St. Martin de Porres and Alonso Abad, is located inside the convent of Santo Domingo in Lima, Peru. The Roman Catholic Church says that many miracles followed her death. All the places named Santa Rosa in the New World pay homage to this saint. Pope Benedict XVI has a special devotion for her. Her liturgical feast was initially celebrated on August 30 because August 24 was the feast of the apostle Bartholomew, but a calendar reform of Vatican II moved her feast day closer to the anniversary of her death. She is now remembered liturgically on August 23, except in Peru and other Latin American countries, where her feast is kept as a public holiday on the traditional date of August 30. She is the patroness of Lima, Peru, The Americas and the Philippines, and the city of Sittard. In addition to this, she is also the patron saint of the city of Santa Rosa, California in the United States which literally means St. Rose in Spanish.
Saint Martin of Porres eman When he died in 1639, Saint Martin, the illegitimate son of a Spanish nobleman and a young freed slave woman, was known to the entire city of Lima. His work ren's on behalf of the poor was tireless: he established an orphanage and a children's hospital. He maintained an austere lifestyle, which included fasting and forswearing meat. His devotion to prayer was notable even by the pious ious standards of the age. Among the many miracles attributed to him were those e of levitation, bilocation, miraculous knowledge, instantaneous cures and an ability to communicate with animals. It is said that he was also was able to feed a dog, a cat, and a mouse together from a same dish; the three didn't dn't fight each other, making him one of the saint patrons of animals. Word of his miracles had made him known as a Saint to every resident of the region. After ter his death, the miracles and graces received when he was invoked multiplied ed in such profusion that his body was exhumed after 25 years and found intact, t, and exhaling a fine fragrance. Letters to Rome pleaded for his beatification on and the decree affirming the heroism of his virtues was issued in 1763 by Clement XIII. In 1962 Pope John XXIII canonized him.
55.
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Flora and fauna
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Flora and Fauna | 26
56 .
Maca , U単a de Gato and Hoja de Coca
Maca
Various medicinal plants have been discovered in Peru's Amazon jungles as well as the Andes mountains and their benefits are known worldwide. For example, Maca, a hardy perennial plant cultivated high in the Andes Mountains at altitudes from 8,000 to 14,500 feet, was consumed for both Moun medicinal and nutritional reasons by the Andean population in Peru's med highlands. Today, global marketing has amplified maca's reported virtues high of increased energy and sexual performance among its users.
U単a de G
ato
ca
e Co
d Hoja
Another plant is U単a de Gato, a woody vine found in the Peruvian An Amazon. Am mazo on While it has been known to treat asthma, rheumatic disorders of the urinary tract, it's primary function is as an and d diseases dis anti-inflammatory remedy. Also, the Peruvian Ash叩ninka tribe has anti -inffla considered consi dered it a general health tonic for more than two thousand years. And can't Coca leaves, which play an especially significant role in the we ca an't forget ffo of Peru. The Quechuas used it as a messenger from the Andean n cultures cult cu the leaf served as a stimulant to overcome exhaustion, Gods. Chewing Chew hunger, hunge r, and thirst. It also was used as an anaesthetic to alleviate the pain of rheumatism, rheum matism wounds and sores. Today, the leaves are commonly used to make an herbal tea, with mild Toda ay, th stimulant stim mulan effects that help with altitude sickness.
57. Camu-Camu Camu-camu is a low-growing shrub found throughout the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, inforest, mainly in swampy or flooded areas. It grows to a height of about 2-3 m and has as large, feathery leaves. It produces round, light orange-colored fruits about the size of lemons, which contain a significant amount of vitamin C. Its high vitamin C content has created a demand for camu-camu fruit in the natural products market.. Some groups are now beginning to study cultivation methods for this important nt new rainforest resource, which is still harvested throughout the Amazon region.
Pima cotton
58 .
Pima cotton (Gossypium barbadense), a tropical perennial plant which is cultivated worldwide but sees its origins in Peru, grows as a small, bushy tree that produces cotton with long, silky fibers. The quality of the cotton allows for production of very resistant, even threads which are eventually used in superior textiles around the world.
Flora and Fauna | 27
Sacha Inchi Oil
59 .
Sachi Inchi, a plant from Peru's Amazonian jungles, has been declared the richest vegetable source of the essential fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids help protect the heart and lower cholesterol. The oil, which is the most easily digestible vegetable oil, won the gold prize at the World Edible Oil Fair last year in Paris. The extract came out on top in a competition that featured over 80 oils sold in 15 countries around the world.
60 .
The Rocoto chili pepper Hot-Hot-Hot! That is the only way to describe this delicious Peruvian contribution tion to the chili pepper family. The rocoto chili pepper is one of the oldest dest domesticated chili peppers in history, with some experts reporting it was grown own as far back as 5,000 years ago. Resembling a small bell pepper, it is used in everything from ceviche and sauces to regional dishes.The most famous of its many uses is by far the Rocoto Relleno, an appetizing offering from Arequipa pa stuffed with a mixture of meat and cheese. While it is not the hottest chili li available in Peru, it is one of the most widely available along with Peru's 's versatile aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili pepper).
Tomatoes
61.
Just like the potato, the tomato is believed to have originated in Peru, particularly on the country's western coastal strip. Can you imagine today's global cuisine without this delicious fruit? Some form of the tomato is present in countless world cuisines.
Flora and Fauna | 28
Puya Raimondi
62 .
Puya Raimondi (Puya raimondii) is an endemic species of the High Andesof Peru and Bolivia, found at an altitude of 3200 - 4800 m. It is not only the largest of the Puya species, but also the largest Bromeliad. With a reported growth of over 100 years, it can be as tall as 3 m tall in vegetative growth, with a flower spike 9-10 m tall. It reportedly can live over 100 years. Like most Bromeliads, it dies soon after flowering. It is considered an endangered species.
63 .
The Macaw hangout Peru has the largest Macaw Claylick in the world, located in the Tambopata National ational Reserve/Bahuaja Sonene National Park in southeastern Peru (Madre de Dios). Every morning hundreds of parrots and macaws gather there to feed on clay. This is an incredible spectacle. People from all over the world come to witness this breathtaking event. Unfortunately (or maybe not), wildlife events such as Macaw acaw gatherings are not at the top of travelers' to-do lists.
The Vic Vicuña
64 .
The vicuñ vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) is one of two wild South American camelids, along with wi the guanaco, which lives in the high alpineous areas of the Andes. relative of the llama and the alpaca. Vicuñas produce small amounts It is a re extremely fine wool. The vicuña's wool is very expensive because the of extr animal can only be sheered every three years. When knitted together, the product produ of the vicuña's fur is very soft and warm. It is understood that the Inca raised vicuñas for their wool, and that it was against the law for any one but royalty to wear vicuña garments. Both under the rule of the Inca and today, vicuñas have been protected by law. Before being declared endangered in 1974, only about 6,000 animals were left. Today, the end vicuña have recovered to about 125,000 but organizations such as the vic IUCN and the U.S. Department of the Interior still consider it IU endangered. e
Flora and Fauna | 29 The Andean Cock of the Rock
65 .
The Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana), one of the world's most spectacular birds and the national bird of Peru, is a medium-sized, approx. 32cm long, passerine with a large disk-like crest and scarlet or brilliant orange plumage. It has a black tail and black wings. The female is significantly darker and browner than the male and has a shorter crest. One of the two species in the genus Rupicola, the Andean Cock-of-the-rock is distributed in Andean cloud forests from Venezuela, through Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, to Bolivia. Their diet consists mainly of fruits. The male is polygamous and the females build shallow nests with mud and plant material on the walls of rocks, hence the common name.
66 . The Peruvian hairless dog – Back from fr near extinction ion Dating back to more than 3,000 years, the Peruvian hairless dog was known to have been part of Peru's historic past. They have been depicted on ceramic artifactss from the Chimu, Moche, and Chanchay cultures. They are known to have been companions to their Inca owners however when the Spanish arrived, they were nearly wiped out by larger and much more aggressive dogs. They were then left eft to fend for themselves on Peru's dry coastal strip. In 1989, the Peruvian government ment stepped in and ordered a pair of Peruvian hairless dogs to be places at every very and they are now huaca (ruin) in Lima. Their numbers have grown consistently con even considered to be luxury dogs.
Rich in mineral resources
67.
Peru is one o of the most blessed countries in the world when it comes to mineral resources. Thanks largely to its robust mining industry, which is constantly growing, Peru's national economy has made great strides in constan improving its place at the international level. It is among the world leaders improv gold, silver, copper, and tin production. With solid and stable in gol governmental influence, Peru's mining industry could help the country gover develop in other areas such as reducing poverty and helping create jobs. deve
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Flora and Fauna | 30
The Po Potato: Peru's gift to the world
68 .
The fourt fourth largest crop grown in the world (fresh produce), is sometimes thought of to be native to the United States (Idaho), Russia, and Ireland due of the crop in those areas. However, long before the to the importance i Spaniards arrived in the Americas, hundreds of varieties of potatoes were Spaniar in Peru. The Spaniards subsequently introduced it to the rest being grown g of the world. Further proof lies in the role of the potato in Peruvian cuisine. Rustic and traditional dishes often include potatoes as a main cuisin component of the main dish or as an accompaniment (such as in comp pachamanca). pach
69 .
Ecological and Biodiversity With 84 out of a possible 103 ecosystems in the world and with 28 different climate mate types, Peru is without a doubt one of the most biologically diverse nations in n the world. In fact, it is among the 5 most biologically diverse countries on earth.Peru Peru also has an exceptional degree of biodiversity, with its mountains, deserts, erts, jungles, rivers and sand dunes that have excellent conditions to cultivate, among ong other things, coffee, cacao, exotic fruits and Andean grains. More than 400 animal species and over 50,000 species of flora (about 20% of those existing on the planet) inhabit the country. Peru's territory is divided into three main ain geographic areas: the coastline, the highlands and the Amazon jungle, which ch together have 84 of the 104 ecological zones existing in the world today, and 28 of its 32 climates.
70 .
1800 bird species call Peru home Peru is home to more than 1,800 bird species, 120 of which are found nowhere else in the world. At least five new species have also been discovered as of this year and are still waiting official scientific description. More than 50 species of bird have been discovered and described in the last 50 years. The diversity of bird species in Peru stems from its ecological and geographical diversity. On the coast, the Pacific Ocean laps at parched desert. Inland, dry forest and scrubland rise to the snowcapped Andes. Toward the east, cloud forests spill into the Amazon Basin.
Peruvian Traditions
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Peruvian Traditions | 32
The Peruvian Cajon
71.
The cajón is the most widely used Afro-Peruvian musical instrument in the 20th century. The instrument has been officially declared a "Cultural Patrimony of the Nation" by the Peruvian government. Slaves of West and Central African origin in the Americas, specifically Peru, are considered to be the source of the cajón drum; though the instrument is common in musical performance throughout the Americas, especially Cuba. In Cuba, the cajón is associated with the Afro-Cuban drum/song/dance style known as rumba, while in Peru it is associated with several Afro-Peruvian genres. Today, the cajón is heard extensively in Cuban, Coastal Peruvian or Musica criolla musical styles: Tondero, Zamacueca and Peruvian Valse, modern Flamenco and certain styles of modern Rumba. The cajón was introduced into flamenco in only the 1970s by guitarist Paco de Lucía. While in Peru, he was given the cajón by percussionist Caitro Soto.
72.
Plaza Acho The Plaza de toros de Acho is a bullring found in Lima, Peru whose construction uction began on 30 Jan 1766. It is the most important of the 56 official bullrings in n the country. The plaza is classified as a historic monument and is located beside e the historical center in the Rímac District. It has a seating capacity of 13,000. It was constructed of classic materials, adobe and wood, and it has survived the various ious earthquakes that have rocked Lima over the centuries since its construction. on. Each year, the plaza showcases the most celebrated bullfighters of in held at the plaza on Sundays through October and parts of November. The best bullfighter of the year is awarded the Escapulario de Oro (Golden Scapular). The plaza is the he oldest to be found in the Americas and the second-oldest in the world after La Maestranza in Spain.
Peruvian Paso Horse Peruvia
73. The Peruvian Peru Paso is a breed of horse that is considered to be the smoothest on earth. It is distinguished by a uniquely natural and efficient riding horse ho called the paso llano, which is a lateral four beat gait. The breed's gait cal ancestors came from Spain and included a mixture of Barb, Spanish Jennet, ancesto and the th Andalusian. The breed was refined and carefully bred in Peru over several centuries making for a purebred that has roots to the once severa populous naturally gaited horses of Spain. Peruvian Paso horses are popul growing in popularity in the US and elsewhere due to their nature and grow comfortable ride. The estimated 25,000 (est. 2003) horses worldwide com are used for pleasure, trail, horse shows, parades, and endurance riding. The Peruvian Paso has been declared a Patrimonio Cultural ridi (Cultural Patrimony) of Peru in an attempt to shore up the breed (Cu within the country. There are now laws in place that restrict the w export of the national champion horses. e
Peruvian Traditions | 33
Señor de los Milagros – Lord of Miracles
74.
This procession, which gathers together the largest number of believers in South America, dates back to colonial times, when a slave, brought over from Angola, drew the image of a black Christ on the walls of a wretched hut on the plantation of Pachacamilla, near Lima. The image stayed on the wall despite several attempts to erase it. As a result of this event, worship of the image rose to new heights, until it became what is today: the most widely venerated image in the city of Lima. The heart of the celebration is one of the largest processions to take place every year in the Americas, where tens of thousands of the faithful dress in purple tunics, singing hymns and praying as they accompany the image.
75.
Peruvian Handicraft Peruvian artesania (handicraft) is an expression of Peruvian culture, diversityy and history. A few examples include Chulucana pottery from the coastal city of Piura; tapestries, from Ayacucho, which are made from alpaca wool; or handmade Incan ncan jewelry made of silver. These handicrafts originate from all over Peru, eru, representing the country's three geographical regions: the coast, the Andes and the rainforest. It's a cultural aspect that has been practiced for centuries, with craftsmen today using the same methods used then.
Inti Raymi
76.
Inti Raymi, one of the largest festivals in the Americas, celebrates Inca traditions in honor of Inti – the Inca Sun God. The Inca celebration took place during the winter solstice as a means of requesting the sun god's return. Animal sacrifices, fasting, and refraining from physical pleasures were common ways native residents pleaded for Inti's return, thus avoiding low crop output and possible famine. With the arrival of the Spaniards and Catholicism in Peru, the event was banned and subsequently became an underground event. Today, the event has become one of the largest festivals in the Americas as hundreds of thousands of people converge in Cuzco in late June for the week-long celebration.
Peruvian Traditions | 34
Traditional Folkloric clothing
77.
Peru's wide variety of traditional clothing is yet another demonstration of this country's great cultural diversity. In the Andean region, people wear elaborately woven and colorful clothing, usually in the form of llicllas, polleras (multi-layered petticoats) and ponchos, Designs and colors vary according to the region. In the rainforest, on the other hand, traditions differ from tribe to tribe, though generally, the clothing is loose and light, appropriate for the heat they withstand. They decorate these outfits dying beautiful designs on them, as well as adding seed necklaces, feathered hats, and painting their faces. Some tribes continue to wear this for everyday life, though most have now adopted occidental clothing. This is true on the coast as well, where traditional clothing can be best appreciated in the costumes of the traditional dances, such as marinera, tondero, zamacueca and festejo.
78.
Qoyllur Rit'i Qoylluriti, considered the biggest “peregrinaje” (festival) in the Andes, began egan in 1780. The event brings together dancers, musicians, faithful believers rs and indigenous people from far away villages, who pilgrim to the Sanctuary ary of Sinakara for the festivities. Every June, the town of Ocongate - an eight hour drive from Cusco city - sees Catholocism and the Andean religions come together, where people praise the Lord of Qoylluriti as well as the Ausangate ngate mountain.
The Marinera – Peru's beautiful dance
79.
The Marinera, a romantic and sultry dance that uses handkerchiefs as simple yet elegant props, is based on the courtship of young lovers. The dance, which originated in northern Peru, is perhaps the country's most popular dance. Marinera contests are held throughout Peru and performers as young as four years of age put on incredible displays of coordination and maturity. The traditional accompaniment for the dance is provided by the Peruvian cajón, guitars and bugles.
Peruvian Traditions | 35
Virgen de la Candelaria
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Peru's most important celebrations of the Virgen de la Candelaria festivity take place in Puno, the folkloric capital of Peru. From February 1st to the 18th, Puno is filled with joy and color, while over 200 dances are presented by people of all ages in honor of the Virgin, showing their devotion and thanking her for their blessings. The most important of these dances is the famous "Diablada PuneĂąa", of Aymara tradition, which symbolizes the everlasting struggle between good and evil. Over 60,000 visitors each year have the chance to experience the processions, music and fireworks that are presented, and also try the special food that is offered. The festivities show a clear mixture of Christian and Andean traditions in "Mamacha Candelaria", as she is known. She does not only represent the Christian Virgin Mary, but is also associated with the Pachamama as well as the beginning of the Inca Empire in Lake Titicaca, and symbolizes thunder, purity and fertility.
Holy Week in Ayacucho
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Located in the Andes, Ayachucho is not only known for its exquisite architecture hitecture but also admired for its deep religious beliefs and celebration of these beliefs. iefs. The people’s expression of their profound faith can be seen in their 10 day celebration ebration of Holy Week. Holy Week is not only a time of sincere respect for the death ath and resurrection of Christ but also a time of enthusiasm and fervor. This can be appreciated in the religious ceremonies and processions as well as in the cultural, artistic and commercial events. Just after Sevilla, Spain, the city of Ayacucho is considered to have the most traditional celebration of Holy Week eek in the world.
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Geographic
- your everyday companion
Geographic | 37
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Alpamayo Mountain, "The Most Beautiful Mountain in the World" Standing at almost 6,000 meters (more than 19,500 feet) above sea level, Alpamayo is the highlight of Peru's Cordillera Blanca, located in the Peruvian region of Ancash. Its steep edge (almost 60 degrees) resembles an almost perfect icy pyramid. In 1966, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) named Alpamayo 'The Most Beautiful Mountain in the World.�
Peru has some of the best surfing in the world
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With the success of Peruvian surfers increasing at the global stage, people are e now taking notice of the quality of wave stars (such as Sofia Mulanovich) grew up p on. Famed surfing conditions in places on Peru's northern coast such as Mancora and Cabo Blanco are considered to be Peru's most heralded surfing locations, while places within an hour's drive to the south of Lima offer excellent conditions which hich are sure to challenge everyone from boogie boarders to seasoned surf veterans. s.
Cerro Blanco – The world's tallest sand dune
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Located near Nazca and the famed Nazca Lines, Cerro Blanco is considered to be the world's tallest sand dune. Cerro Blanco stands 2,000 meters high and provides some of the most extreme sand-boarding conditions in the world. If sandboarding isn't your thing, then rent sand buggies as tour companies that operate in the area offer plenty of options for visitors.
Geographic | 38
Rio Abiseo National Park
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The Rio Abiseo National Park is located in the San Martín department of Peru. UNESCO pronounced it a Natural and Cultural Heritage of Humanity (World Heritage Site) in 1990. The park is home to a large number of species of flora and fauna, as well as the location of over 30 pre-Columbian archaeological sites. Since 1986, the park has not been open to tourism due to the fragile nature of both the natural and archaeological environment. There are at least seven climate zones in the park, including montane forest, tropical alpine forest, montane rainforest, high Andean grasslands (puna), and dry forest. The Yellow-tailed Woolly Monkey (Oreonax flavicauda), previously thought to be extinct, is known to live in the park and appears to be endemic to the region. It was mostly due to this monkey's critically endangered status that the area gained national park status and was placed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1983.
86 .
The Andes Mountains The Andes are South America's longest mountain range, forming a continuous chain of highland along the western coast of South America. It is over 7,000 km (4,400 miles) long, 500 km (300 miles) wide in some parts, and of an average height of about 4,000 m (13,000 ft). Some attribute the origin of the name to one of the e four regions of the Inca empire. The Inca Empire developed in the northern Andes during the 1400s. The Incas formed this civilization through careful and meticulous culous governmental management. The government sponsored the construction on of aqueducts and roads, some of which, like those created by the Romans, are still till in existence today. Devastated by deadly European diseases to which they had d no immunity, the Incas were conquered by an army of 180 men led by Pizarro ro in 1532. One of the few Inca cities the Spanish never found in their conquest was Machu Picchu, which lay hidden on a peak on the edge of the Andes where they hey descend to the Amazon.
Huascarán National Park
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Huascaran National Park, declared a a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985, is a national park in the Cordillera Blanca, a range of the Andes, in Ancash of central Peru. It was also pronounced as Natural Heritage of Humanity and recognized as Reserve of Biosphere Core. The highest snow-covered mountain is here (whose name is also Huascarán and is 6,768 meters tall). This park is the habitat of the Puya raimondi, the cougar, the jaguar, the llama, the guanaco, the Marsh deer, the Peruvian Tapir, the Peruvian Piedtail, a hummingbird species, and many kinds of ducks including the Southern Pochard.
Geographic | 39
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The Quelccaya Ice Cap – The largest glaciated area in the tropics The Quelccaya Ice Cap is the largest glaciated area in the tropics. Located in the Cordillera Oriental section of the Andes mountains of Peru, the ice cap is at an average altitude of 5,470 meters (18,600 ft) and spans an area of 44 square kilometers (17 mi²). As with the majority of the Earth's glaciers, the Quelccaya Ice cap has retreated significantly since it was first studied. Since 1978 the icecap has lost approximately 20% of its area, and the rate of retreat is presently increasing. Comparing pictures taken in 1963 and 1978, an annual retreat rate of 4.7 meters (15.4 ft) was estimated. In the first few years of the 21st century, the annual retreat was measured to be as much as 205 meters (672 ft), more than 40 times as fast. The major outlet glacier from the Quelccaya Ice Cap, the Qori Kalis Glacier, has also retreated significantly since 1963.
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Goctca Waterfalls The Goctca Waterfall, a waterfall with two drops, has been known for centuries ies to the local residents in Peru's province of Chachapoyas in the Amazonas, which ch is approximately 700 kilometers to the north-east of Lima. Its existence was made public following an expedition in 2005 and is is listed as one of the tallest llest waterfalls in the world.
Manú Biosphere Reserve
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Manu’s Biosphere Reserve protects 2 million hectares (4.5 million acres) of a territory rich in flora and fauna species, and a variety of habitats including high Andes, cloud forests, and lowland tropical rain forests. 1,000 species of birds, 300 species of trees, and countless other life forms call Manu their home. UNESCO officially recognizes this natural paradise as a world heritage site. It is also known for being the home to a wide variety of guacamayos (macaws) – the biggest macaws of the Americas - as well as being the largest colpa in the Peruvian Amazon region, the meeting place of numerous macaws, parrots and parakeets.
Geographic | 40
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Peru is the t source of the Amazon River The great Amazon A River (Rio Amazonas in Spanish), the most voluminous river in the world, begins its vast journey to the Atlantic Ocean at Apecheta Cliff, wor located at a Nevado Mismi, in Arequipa, Peru. It then makes its way down the Andes and an into the Amazon basin and rainforest - considered the 'lungs of the world' as it is responsible for absorbing large amounts of carbon wo dioxide. dioxide The jewel of the Peruvian Amazon is without a doubt Iquitos, the largest larges city in the Peruvian rainforest.
92 . Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons – Two of the deepest canyons in the world The Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons, formed by the rivers of the same name, me, are considered to be some of the deepest canyons in the world with Cotauhuasi si being the deepest in all of the Americas at 3535 meters, more than twice as deep p as the Grand Canyon in the United States. Adorning the southern Peruvian skies over ver the impressive mountain terrain are the legendary Andean Condors which call this is area home.
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Lake Tit Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world Lake Titicaca, Titica which borders Puno, Peru on its western side, is regarded as the highest highes commercially navigable lake in the world. It is situated at an altitude of o 3,812 meters (12,507 feet) above sea level. The lake is fed by more than tha 40 rivers and glacial meltwater. The lake is home to the Uros, a group of 43 floating reed islands. The Uros have become keys to the local economy econom as their value in tourism is important to the people of the area.
Cities
- your everyday companion
Cities | 42
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Arequipa – The White City Arequip Arequipa, located l in southern Peru at an altitude of 2,380 meters (7,740 feet) above sea level, is the country's second most important city and is one of the top tourist touris destinations behind Cuzco and Lima. Arequipa is located in the department of the same name, and is shadowed by the large snow-capped departm towering over 5,800 meters above sea level. In fact, Misty volcano v Arequipa has over 80 volcanoes. The city's nickname, the “White City”, is Arequip derived from the white colonial buildings built of sillar, a white volcanic derive stone. The city is home to approximately 1 million people, and is famous stone for iits varied and savory cuisine. Among Arequipa's most notable sons and daughters are: Pedro Paulett (unofficial father of the modern rocket propulsion system), Hernando de Soto (renowned economist), roc and Alex Olmedo (tennis player ranked #1 in 1959). an
95 Cusco, Peru: “The navel of the world” Cuzco, which means 'navel of the world' in the indigenous language Quechua, a, was the epicenter of the famed Inca empire that stretched from Colombia in the north to as far south as northern Argentina. Today it is the epicenter of Peru's tourism ourism industry due to its proximity to such majestic attractions which include clude Ollantaytambo, Sacsayhuaman, and of course Machu Picchu. Sitting at an elevation of approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level, it is home to more than 300,000 people who depend on the tourism industry, either directly ectly or indirectly. The city is also home to Peruvian soccer club Ciencano del Cusco, usco, the only Peruvian club to win the Copa Sudamericana. Cuzco is the primary mary tourist destination and because of this, it has been seen on numerous television sion travel shows around the world.
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Trujillo, Peru – The City of Eternal Spring Trujillo, loc located in northern Peru, is the country's third largest city behind Lima and Arequipa. The city's mild climate gives it its name as the city of A Eternal Spring. The city's proximity to important cultural sites that once Sp belonged to the Mochis and the Chimu make Trujillo a logical stop for those visiting Peru for cultural reasons. Another is the UNESCO World Heritage site P of Chan Chan, the largest mud settlement in the Americas. Trujillo also contributes to Peru's cuisine, as its food is considered some of the best in contribu the country. cou
Cities | 43
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Lima - T The City of Kings Lima, the hub of all activity in Peru, is the country's capital city and epicenter. epicenter. Millions live in the metropolis that spans from Ancon in the north to Lurin in i the south. The Andes Mountains border its eastern side while the outlines the city's western edge. Inside the area lie ruins Pacific Ocean O such as Pachacamac and the Huaca Pullana, which supply a pleasant contrast to modern areas such as San Isidro's financial district. For those contras who stop st in Lima before they continue on to Cuzco or Arequipa, we invite you to get out and about this wonderful city and explore its organized chaos and who knows, you just might fall in love with what lies beneath chao the city's gritty reputation - its people.
98 Tarapoto Tarapoto, known as The Palm Tree City, is a thriving commercial city in northern orthern Peru, an hour by plane from Lima, situated in the San Martín Province of the he San Martín Region, located to the east in what is known as the selva baja. Although hough Moyobamba is the capital of the region, Tarapoto is its largest city and is linked ked to the Upper Amazon and the historic city of Yurimaguas, by a maintained ained transandean road. The city is 350 meters above sea level and has a population on of over 120,000 inhabitants. Tarapoto is often used by tourists and visitors as a "jumping off" point for excursions into the Amazon Rainforest. The main activities vities are tourism, commerce and agriculture. The Palm Tree City offers a variety ty of hotels in-and-around the city, as well as several typical dishes, beautiful tiful landscapes, waterfalls and adventure tourism, such as river rafting.
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Iquitos The largest larges city in the Peruvian rainforest, Iquitos is the hub of the Peruvian jungle. It is widely regarded as the most populous city not accessible by road. In fact, the only way to reach Iquitos is by air or by river. During the early 20th 20 century, Iquitos thrived thanks to a booming rubber industry. Today, Iquitos is home to a prosperous (and controversial) oil industry, and equally as important (and some would say equally controversial) is the equall booming tourism industry: Iquitos is often the gateway to jungle boom excursions and it also home to the great Amazon race. excu
Cities | 44 Piura
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Piura is a city c in northwestern Peru. It is the capital of the Piura Region and the Piura Province. The population is 400,000. It was here that Spanish Conqueror Francisco Pizarro founded the first Spanish city in South America, Miguel de Piura, in 1532. Piura declared its independence on January 4, San Migue Piura served as the first main port through which the Inca gold the 1821. Piu Spaniards had gathered was shipped back to Spain. Piura is host to a Spaniard stunning mestizo culture (the oldest in South America 1532, Piura is the stunnin Spanish city in South America) most famous for gastronomical dishes first Sp like Seco Se de Chavelo (the local dish), Algarrobina drinks, many types of Cebiche and Natilla Sweets. Popular crafts are the Chulucana Pottery Cebic is famous for its "Hats" and "Silversmith" arts. The Tondero and Catacaos C and cumanana is the traditional music of mestizo Piura and northern parts Lambayeque. There are also several famous Peruvian valse that par came from these regions (northern Peruvians have their style). cam "Chicha music", now called Tecnocumbia (originally a Peruvian styled "C ccumbia), is also quite popular all over, as well as Salsa among youngsters.
101 . Chiclayo Chiclayo is a city on the northern coastal plain in Peru. It is 95 feet above ve sea level. The city population is approximately 634,600 while the metropolitan n area is approximately 910,255. Chiclayo was founded in 1560 as a rural Indian village by a Spanish priest. Until the 19th century, Chiclayo remained a small town wn in comparison to the nearby city of Lambayeque. However, the city of Chiclayo clayo has since grown to become a major modern metropolis. It is Peru's fourth ourth largest city. Since the city is located in a productive valley, there is strong trong agriculture, such as rice production, sugar cane and cotton. Until Peru's eru's economic decline, the port of Pimentel served as Chiclayo's main export line; sugar refined in Pomalca passed through Chiclayo by train and was exported rted to various destinations along the Pacific Rim. However, with the socialization tion of agriculture, and subsequent demise of the Peruvian economy, Chiclayo ayo ceased to export by sea.
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