The Christmas culture of the Peruvian Andes stars in the Vatican nativity scene

The traditions and Christmas culture of the Chopcca community, in the Peruvian Andes region of Huancavelica, are the protagonists this year of the colorful Vatican Nativity Scene, which seeks to enhance “an imagery so different from the traditional nativity scene” and show the world “the wealth of Peru”.

This was explained to Efe today by the Peruvian ambassador to the Holy See, Jorge Eduardo Román, who highlighted the opportunity for his country to present its traditional handmade nativity scene at the “center of christianity”, When 200 years of independence are celebrated.

Specifically, he distinguished the cultural richness of the people of Chopcca, “cultural heritage of Peru“, Which is represented”with the image of what an Andean Christmas is”.

The colorful costumes that characterize this community and that are worn by the characters of the manger, as well as the animals of the mountainous region that accompany them are the elements that the artisans of the manger have used to “bring a piece of Huancavelica” to the Vatican.

“With all this imagery so different from the traditional manger ”it has also sought to appreciate“ everything that the environment gives but that must be preserved”, Indicated the ambassador.

For her part, the birth architect Natali Luz explained that these 35 pieces made with resin, fiberglass and other waterproof materials, symbolize not only the material elements “but living culture, traditions and experiences”Of this community.

For this reason a “extraction of everyday items in the Peruvian Andes”Not only in the human figures but also in the animals that decorate the birth, among them the llamas that replace the camels, the alpacas, the condors or the chinchillas.

The characters that star in this Bethlehem, which can be visited from tomorrow, Saint Joseph, the Virgin Mary, the Child Jesus, symbolize for their part “the union of the family in the Peruvian Andes“And the faith that helps”to live in a united and organized way”To the Chopcca people, explained the Bishop of Huancavelica Carlos Salcedo.