In October, every corner on the streets of Lima turns purple. They do this to celebrate one of the biggest religious processions in the world: “La procesión del Señor de los Milagros” or Lord of the Miracles Parade. Viagens Machu Picchu will tell you all you need to know about this huge celebration in the city of Lima.
In the 17th century, an African slave in Peru painted an image of Christ crucified. The image was painted on an adobe wall in Pachacamilla, a temple where African people prayed. In 1655, a terrible earthquake struck Peru, destroying the temple; however, the image was almost intact.
Yet, in 1687, the city got another bad earthquake. Like the last one, only the mural depicting Christ survived. Following the discovery of this shocking truth, the believers marched outside carrying a copy of the mural. This parade, which is currently regarded as one of the biggest in the world, gave rise to a wonderful tradition.
After the second earthquake, people decided to build a new temple that currently houses the mural. El Santuario de las Nazarenas in Lima's downtown. Thousands of people gather here every October from all over the world. They come to see the Lord of Miracles' procession out of this church.
The month of October is known as "Mes Morado” or "Purple Month" due to the particular color of the habit worn by the devotees during the procession. The other name El Señor de los Milagros receives is “Cristo Moreno.” He is highly regarded for his miracles and his help during hard times.
Today, the Lord of Miracles Procession in Lima is one of Peru's most important religious and cultural events. Every year, thousands of Catholics and curious observers gather to see this amazing display of faith. Over the years, it's become an expression of dedication and tradition.
The procession is both visually and emotionally compelling. A group of believers known as "carriers" transported the picture, these men carry on their shoulders the heavy structure where the image lies through the streets of Lima. Thousands attended the procession, wearing purple as a show of devotion.
The religious congregate on the sidewalks to observe the image's passage and to pray. The setting is full of emotion. This includes the importance of the occasion and the fervor of those who show gratitude for its received miracles.
One reason El Señor de los Milagros is so important for Peruvians is that it’s the patron of Peruvian citizens and emigrants. This is especially true for Peruvians who live abroad. They pay their respects by arriving in Peru in October.
Or they give money for the event’s logistics. Even abroad, they spread the holiday's traditions and celebrations. Hundreds of cities around the world celebrate the practice. Some local authorities acknowledge it.
For example, you’ll find brotherhoods of El Señor de los Milagros almost in every Lima district. Around Peru, brotherhoods are in Cusco, Iquitos, Arequipa, Trujillo, and more. As for abroad, there are brotherhoods in regions with many Peruvian immigrants. These regions include the United States, Japan, Italy, Brazil, Canada, Spain, and Argentina.
The nuns of the Congregation of the “Madres Nazarenas Carmelitas Descalzas” ( Barefooted nouns of the Nazarenas) have given October the moniker "purple month." They guard the picture of El Señor de los Milagros and wear purple clothing, similar to El Nazareno's. When you visit the streets of central Lima in October, you'll notice a lot of purple decorations, and people wearing purple clothes paying respect to the image
As a traveler, you'll want to learn about the unique traditions surrounding the El Señor de los Milagros event. Local sellers on nearby streets sell religious items and traditional specialty meals. During a Señor de los Milagros procession, people eat popular foods. These include “mazamorra morada” (purple pudding from purple corn), picarones (Peruvian donuts), and turrón de Doña Pepa (Peruvian nougat).
The history of the Doña Pepa traditional treat is distinctive and also interesting. Josefa Martinez, affectionately known as Doña Pepa, was a black slave in Cañete, near Lima. She was let free when she lost mobility in her arms and couldn't work.
Mrs. Josefa went to Lima to visit the image of El Señor de los Milagros, participate in a procession, and pray for her health. According to the account, Doña Pepa regained movement in her arms and dreamed of a candy recipe including cornstarch and honey.
The next day, Mrs. Josefa took the nougat to the celebration, giving portions to all the devotees and telling them about her dream. Everybody loved the desert and is a tradition until the present day. This nougat is a tradition in October and always in Peru, it has an important role in Peruvian food. You can get it in almost every candy store or cake shop in Peru.
Don't miss the chance to attend this fantastic event. Participate in the parade, experience the Peruvian people's unity, and be moved by the faith and dedication surrounding this holiday.
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