TAYTACHA QOYLLORITI: The Pilgrimage
(JUNE, 2004)
The pilgrimage to the "Lord of Qoylloriti" is an experience of faith and devotion where the dance, music, cold, altitude, hills, and snowy mountains connect us with the spiritual world. The rituals of this celebration are intrinsic to the religious syncretism of the Andean culture. Despite technology, migratory movements, and globalization, this ritual preserves its essence and reconnects pilgrims with their traditions, faith, and identity.
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On June 5, 2004, Klaus (a professor from my University in Peru), a friend of his, a fellow student, and I embarked on a photographic journey that became a pilgrimage of images and faith. We departed from the city of Cusco towards "Mahuayani," then we hiked 6 miles at 15,800 feet of altitude towards the "Sinakara" ravine. According to the Andean tradition, the image of the "Lord of Qoyllorit'i" appeared in this place.
Along the way, the "apachetas" (stone structures located throughout the entire route) and the itinerant chapels remind us that many traveled the same route with faith and devotion. These altars on the road are places of physical and spiritual rest. |
The dancers of the eight nations (or communities) that year after year gather to dance day and night for the "Taytacha Qoylloriti" embody the Andean worldview of the ancestors. The "Pablitos" (dancers and protectors of the celebration) hike up to the snowy mountain to thank and renew their commitment to the "Taytacha." They are the memory of the celebration that reminds us that we are intimately linked to the sun, wind, snow, and mountains. Their actions show that we must protect what nature provides us.
This series of images shows that the journey is not made alone. You cannot make a pilgrimage to "Sinakara" without being an active part of the celebration. The "Qoylloriti" is not only the miraculous image of the "Taytacha" found in the sanctuary, but it is each of those who have embarked on the path to renew their faith and commitment to their communities of origin. |