Snow Star pilgrimage in Peru: 21-02-2008
Thousands of pilgrims will take part in the annual Snow Star pilgrimage this year, traveling to the shrine at Sinkara as part of an age-old festival that celebrated Peru's past.
Many visitors to Peru turn out to watch the pilgrimage, known as the Qoyllur Rit'I, to the glacier outside
Cusco on the day of the Holy Trinity.
Travelling to the foot of Mount Ausengate, the route of the pilgrimage often reaches temperatures below freezing and it is believed to be linked in to ancient fertility rituals that paid homage the land and the spirits of the mountains.
More than 10,000 people, mostly from the district of Ocongate (Quispicanchis), take part in the event each year, reaching the high shrine in difficult conditions to search for the fabled Snow Star, which legend says was buried in the mountain.
Taking place 16,000 ft above sea level, the festival is an intriguing mixture of pagan and Christian influences and affords travelers the chance to see Peruvian dancing, traditional costumes, masks, instruments and folk art.
Mountains have played a key role in the ancient cultures of South America and Chile and the Andean nations are dotted with archaeological sites used centuries ago for worship deities.