Today is the bicentennial of the great celebration of Inti Raymi, the festival of the Sun - a modern rendition of the ancient Inca ceremony here in Cusco, once the center (or should I say, Qosqo or "navel") of the Inca empire. It was brought back to life 200 years ago after being prohibited by the Catholic Church. Now it is the pride of the Peruvian people, and attracts thousands from around the world to watch the great spectacle.

While people in North America and Europe are celebrating the summer solstice today, here in Peru it is the winter solstice. For my ancestors the Incas, the winter solstice represented an important moment in the calendar, in its relation with Nature. They had a profound understanding and respect for astronomical phenomena. During the winter solstice the sun reaches its lowest point, after which it begins its gradual ascent, marking the beginning of a new cycle of growth and fertility.