14:42 | Cusco (Cusco region), May. 26.
Thousands of people, including locals and tourists, have taken the streets of downtown Cusco to join the procession of Corpus Christi, a traditional observance that brings together Catholic faith and ancient Andean customs.
The intensity of the feast is perceived since the eve with the "entrance" of Saints and Virgins from different temples accompanied by priests, stewards and neighbors.
During the procession, stewards wear emblems or insignias depicting Virgins and Saints while walking to the Cathedral, where the image is placed until today, the central day, when the principal procession takes place.
The Saints entrance is spectacular, due to the “race” between Saint Sebastian and Saint Jerome from their home churches to the cathedral.
Today is the main day, and masses and liturgical services are scheduled to take place prior to Corpus Christi, carried by a silver carriage; Virgins and Saints images come next.
Around 1,250 police officers in uniform and civilian clothes have been deployed to guarantee the safety of locals and tourists taking part in the festivity.
Both tourists and locals flock to Cusco's historic center to join the celebrations, which date back from the period of transition between the Incan and Colonial times, when royal Inca mummies were replaced by Saints.
A special contingent has been sent to air and land terminals, so that tourists do not face problems while staying there.
(END) PHS/MAO/RMB/MVB
Published: 5/26/2016