Inti Raymi - Sun Ceremony

Today was when all the activities for the Inti Raymi Festival came to a climax with the reenactment of the Sun Worship Ceremony. There was only one other traveler and myself that wanted to observe the beginning ceremony which began at 9. Juan, our fearless tour leader, went at 6:30 to purchase us small stools to sit on and to stake out our viewing point. Mary Beth and I went at 7:30 to wait for the beginning. The crowd was already growing and a massive number of people eventually showed up to watch.

A honorary guard from the mountains dressed in traditional ceremonial costume. 

There is no way I can explain the meaning of all of the activities. So, just know that it was one of the most exhilarating experiences I have had in all of my travels. Enjoy the elaborate costumes and scenery. The ceremonial grounds was just below the monastery.

The high priest was atop the ancient wall of the original Sun Temple built in the 1400's.

The troops on the grounds.

Giving sacrifices 

After the main ceremony, the high priest instructed the troops and other partisans to move to the main town square. We moved up a side street and got some great views of the troops marching up.

The crowd was huge.

Again, it was one of the most beautiful and special moments in my life.