Peruvian Culture
Posted on June 21, 2012 by admin
What makes Peru such a fascinating country is the variety of culture in the region. Though it has its major emphasis in Amerindian and Spanish cultures, there is also evidence of European, African, and even Asian traditions as well. Put together, this is what gives Peru some of its “magical” qualities. When you visit Machu Picchu, you feel as if you’re visiting a place of universal significance – not just a local curiosity. Peru is a crossroads of many different traditions and ideologies throughout history.
It’s important to learn about Peruvian history before you arrive because this will make your trip that much more fulfilling. One method would be to visit your local art or natural history museum to learn about Peruvian relics. Museums in Peru have a wider variety of historical displays, but visiting a museum beforehand can act as a sort of primer.
As you’ll see in much of Peruvian art, religion plays a major role. As reflected in Peru’s churches and paintings, religious iconography is prevalent – though it is of a different character than the religious art traditions of Europe. Recent art in Peru is more eclectic and less religion-based and shows increased worldwide influence.
What may be most amazing about Peru is that the country itself is like a living museum. Seeing art within the confines of a museum is one thing, but actually traveling to Machu Picchu or the Mayan pyramids is more like experiencing history first hand. It is the closest one can get to a time machine and has to be experienced to be believed.
