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Peru has a rich cultural heritage dating back to thousands of years, which is also one of the richest in the entire South American continent. The culture of Peru is a fine blend of local Inca and Spanish cultures, presenting an interesting experience for visitors. The population of Peru constitutes of approx. 45% indigenous, about 37% mestizo (mix of indigenous and Spanish), 15% Europeans, and the rest Asian, African or other descent.
During pre-Columbian times (the era before European influence), Peru was an important center of art and architecture in the Americas. The world-famous Inca cultures, inclduing Moche, Nazca and Chimu, produced great artistic works in forms of art and architecture, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and textiles. The recent archaeological discoveries suggest that music has been played in Peru for over 10,000 years. The findings of ancient musical instruments such as quenas, zampoņas, and pututos (trumpets made from sea conch) are testimony to this fact. In addtion, the fascianitng towns of Machu Picchu and the Cuzco offer excellent examples of Inca architectural heritage.
When the Spanish arrived in the region in the early 16th century, they influenced the culture of Peru in a significant way. They gave a new language, religion, architecture, and even new customs and traditions to Peru. The 16th century historical chronicle of Garcilaso de la Vega, son of a Spanish conqueror and an Inca princess, deals with the greatness of the Inca culture and empire. Over the past centuries, there has been a long process of inter-cultural mixing in Peru, creating a unique culture known as "mestizo," that's a part-American Indian and a part-European heritage.
Today, Roman Catholicism is the main religion in Peru, while the Native Americans follow a unique religion, which is a fine blend of Catholicism and local traditional beliefs. Spanish is the main language in Peru, while English is also spoken and understood in major cities of the country. Peru is also renowned for its rich varieties of seafood. Festivals are other important part of Peruvian culture. The people of Peru are known for their liveliness and love to celebrate very happy occasion in their life. Peru celebrates some 3,000 festivals a year, and you'll find a festival in Peru on almost everyday of the year, in one or other part of the country.
Travour offers you online information on climate in Peru. For more information on Peru climate, please click on relevant links on this page, or write to us.
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