Celebrated in Northern La Libertad region, Huamachuco’s San Francisco de Asis Festivity was declared a National Cultural Heritage by Peru’s Culture Ministry.
This recognition was granted to the religious tradition, which leads to mobilizing the local population, whose members strengthen ties, mix several cultural and historic elements and, therefore, turn the celebration into an important demonstration of their identity.
According to a Deputy Ministerial Resolution published in El Peruano official gazette, the said event is annually held between September and October starting with the traditional Pennant Parade. It concludes on the last Saturday of the 10th month of the year.
San Francisco de Asis Brotherhood —founded on October 8th, 1923— is one of Huamachuco city's most representative and united organizations in charge of organizing cultural activities along with religious authorities, local institutions and the faithful community.
The central day takes place at Huamachuco's Main Square every October 4th.
History
Back in colonial times, a typhus outbreak spread across the town. A slave fell sick and died. His Spanish owner cried and begged Saint Francis to protect his servant's soul.
On the next morning, a knock on the captain's house door was heard. After opening, the master was surprised to find his slave once again alive.
According to the legend, the miraculous act happened on October 4th. Since that day, the outbreak disappeared and peace reigned.
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