You can find traces of the Inca legacy throughout Cusco City, the former heart of the Inca Empire. From ancient ruins and cobblestone streets to captivating traditions and vibrant culture, Cusco offers a glimpse into the Incas’ fascinating past.
However, just eight hours from the city, at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level, a remarkable group of people continues to live by Inca traditions. Meet the Qeros, the last Inca community in Peru. Despite centuries since the Inca Empire’s prime, the Qeros proudly call themselves the “heirs of the Incas.”
They have preserved their culture and customs, staying true to their ancestral roots. Join us as we uncover the rich traditions and fascinating way of life of the Qeros, nestled in the majestic highlands of the Cusco region.
Who exactly are the Queros?
The Qeros community is a remarkable group of Quechua people from Cusco’s highlands. For many years, they have kept their traditions alive in the beautiful mountains near Ausangate, especially after the 16th-century Spanish conquest.
In the 1950s, researchers, including Peruvian archaeologist Óscar Núñez del Prado, rediscovered the Qeros. Today, they continue to practice traditional farming, livestock raising, and weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations.
Still today, Qeros create beautiful textiles, like ponchos, chullo hats, and “llicllas,” rectangular andean blankets. They celebrate their Inca heritage through myths, music, and vibrant ceremonies. In 2007, the Peruvian government recognized the Qeros as the Country’s Cultural Heritage.
This honored their role in preserving Inca culture, standing as a living link to Peru’s rich history and cultural legacy, inspiring both researchers and travelers.
Their Origin
The history of the Qeros dates back to the Inca period (15th century) and even earlier. The Andean-Amazonian communities, which began in Antisuyo, were key to trade between the Andes and the Amazon and skillfully used the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road network.
They shared valuable goods, like sacred coca leaves, with jungle communities. For centuries, they were a vital part of Inca society and spirituality. However, when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, many Qeros sought to protect their way of life.
So, they moved to the remote mountains of Ausangate or the lush jungles of Cusco. Even with modernization, they have successfully kept their ancestral customs alive, shown through their traditional dress, pastoral lifestyle, and farming practices.
Where do they live?
The Qero communities are located in the Vilcanota mountain range in Peru, with some living near the Ausangate mountain or in the jungle brow zones. Their economy relies on self-sufficiency and exchange, primarily through alpaca or llama herding, agriculture, and trading their goods.
The Qeros have preserved the social structure inherited from their Inca ancestors. Each community member fulfills a specific role, fostering collaboration and mutual support. This structure, also called “Ayllu” aligns with their sustainable approach to nature and communal living, reflecting core Andean values.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that the Qeros received recognition for their rich history and cultural importance. In 2007, they were honored as Cultural Heritage of Peru. Today, some communities, like the Queros Wachiperi and Qero Totorani, have embraced tourism to thrive.
In 2021, the Peruvian government established the “Qeros Kosñipata Protected Area,” covering over 55,000 hectares, to safeguard their cultural and natural heritage. This area is accessible via an eight-hour journey to Kosñipata district in the Paucartambo province.
The Qeros’ way of life exemplifies a harmonious connection with their environment, embodying traditions passed down for generations. They are the last descendants of the Inca, and are a symbol of resilience, blending their cherished traditions with modern life
Rituals and Spirituality
The Q’ero culture offers a beautiful perspective on spirituality that is truly inspiring. At the heart of their beliefs is Ayni, which means reciprocity. This idea emphasizes that everything in life is connected, and the Q’ero embodies this principle in their relationships with one another, their surroundings, and the spirits.
When they plant crops, they show gratitude by offering coca leaves or chicha to Pachamama, the Earth Mother. This ritual is called “haywarikuy” a Quechua word that means “payment to the earth. Moreover, the Q’ero are well-known as paqos, or spiritual healers.
Their rituals often include chanting, music, and coca leaf readings, which are believed to heal both body and soul. For visitors, these ceremonies can connect them to nature and the universe, creating a memorable experience. Music also creates a good environment. Indigenous songs accompanied by Peruvian musical instruments honor the apus and add an emotional touch to these rituals.
Textiles and Traditions
The Qeros communities preserve a rich textile tradition that dates back to the Inca era. Let’s explore the beauty of alpaca fiber threads! These threads are famous for their softness and strength, making them perfect for weaving textiles that tell rich cultural stories.
Their designs capture the balance of life, representing ideas like day and night or man and woman. Each piece is crafted with care and thought using natural dyes, like cochineal, to bring lively and true colors to their garments. Plus, the tools they use are handmade, honoring traditions that have been cherished for generations.
Conclusion
The Q’ero community offers a wonderful glimpse into Peru’s rich history and unique way of life. They teach us about balance, gratitude, and respect for nature. In our busy world, their values encourage us to slow down and appreciate the beauty around us.
For travelers, meeting the Q’ero is more than just learning about a new culture. It’s a chance to be inspired by their strength, spirituality, and connection to the environment. You can learn from the last living descendants of the Incas and take their valuable lessons with you into the future.
The Q’ero people of Cusco serve as a living link to the ancient Inca civilization. Visiting their villages provides a special opportunity to experience a culture that has thrived for generations. From their vibrant textiles to their rich spiritual practices, the Q’ero inspire us to live with purpose, respect, and gratitude.
If you find yourself in Cusco and want an experience that goes beyond typical tourism, consider trekking to the Q’ero villages. This journey will leave a lasting impression and enrich your understanding of the world long after you return home.
To learn more about people in Peru, traditions, and costumes stay tuned to our blog. To know Peru differently, we invite you to visit us. Viagens Machu Picchu will be more than glad if we can assist you in knowing Qeros and other hidden gems in our country.
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