Posted by Team Tunupa / April 4, 2025
Holy Week in Cusco is one of the most important religious celebrations on the Andean calendar. This festivity brings together thousands of local worshippers and tourists alike, offering a unique experience that blends spiritual devotion, colonial architecture, and traditional cuisine.
If you’re thinking of visiting Cusco during this time, this guide will help you discover the main traditions, processions, and typical dishes that make this celebration so special.
When Is Holy Week Celebrated in Cusco?
Holy Week in Peru varies each year, according to the Christian liturgical calendar. In Cusco, the celebrations usually begin on Palm Sunday and culminate on Easter Sunday, with Holy Monday (Lunes Santo) being the most important day.
On this day, the procession of the Lord of the Earthquakes (Señor de los Temblores), the sworn patron of Cusco, takes place. His image is carried through the city from the Cusco Cathedral, accompanied by ñucchu flowers, religious chants, and thousands of devoted followers.
Main Processions and Activities
1. Palm Sunday
The celebrations begin with the blessing of palm branches in the most important churches of Cusco’s Historic Center.
2. Holy Monday
Procession of the Lord of the Earthquakes (Señor de los Temblores), one of the largest and most attended in the country.
3. Holy Thursday
The traditional Visita a los Siete Templos (Visit to the Seven Churches) invites people to walk through several of Cusco’s historic churches. The most commonly visited include: Cusco Cathedral, Church of the Society of Jesus (Compañía de Jesús), San Blas Church, Santo Domingo Church, La Merced Church, San Francisco of Assisi Church, and San Cristóbal Church.
4. Good Friday
Reenactments of the Stations of the Cross (Vía Crucis) take place along historic streets such as Siete Culebras and San Blas.
5. Easter Sunday
Mass and the official closing of the Holy Week religious activities.
Traditional Holy Week Cuisine in Cusco
During this week, Catholic tradition suggests avoiding red meat, so it’s common to find a wide variety of dishes made with fish, Andean grains, and native tubers in restaurants and local markets.
Some of the most representative dishes include:
- Chupe de viernes: a hearty soup made with shrimp, milk, potatoes, and cheese.
- Ceviche de trucha o chicharrón de trucha, served instead of the classic seafood ceviche.
- Causa rellena made with vegetables or tuna.
- Pesque de quinua: a creamy dish prepared with quinoa and cheese.
Cusqueñan tamal and pan wawa (baby-shaped bread): traditional side options.
Many restaurants offer criollo buffets or special Holy Week menus, giving visitors a chance to taste the best of traditional Peruvian cuisine adapted to the Easter season.
Tips for Experiencing Holy Week in Cusco
- Arrive early for the processions, especially on Holy Monday. Cusco’s Plaza de Armas fills up quickly.
- Visit the city’s most iconic churches, such as Cusco Cathedral, San Blas Church, and the Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía).
- Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants offering traditional seasonal dishes.
- Respect religious spaces and follow safety guidelines during the processions.
Where to Eat During Holy Week in Cusco?
If you’re looking for an authentic culinary experience with traditional Cusqueñan dishes and a privileged view of the Plaza de Armas, Tunupa Cusco is an excellent choice. You can also enjoy a more natural and traditional setting at the Tunupa restaurant in the Sacred Valley — ideal for those exploring Urubamba and the surrounding areas during this special time.
Conclusion
Experiencing Holy Week in Cusco is a unique opportunity to connect with the tradition, faith, and living culture of the Andes. Plan ahead, enjoy the processions, and don’t miss the chance to taste the special flavors this season has to offer.
