Virgin of Candelaria: Tradition, Faith and Culture in Puno

History and Origin

The Festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria is one of the most important religious and cultural celebrations in Puno and throughout Peru. Its roots date back to the colonial era, when the Spanish brought the devotion to the Virgin Mary under the advocation of the Candelaria, fusing it with Andean beliefs and traditions.

It is believed that the Virgin appeared to protect the inhabitants in times of danger and calamities. Since then, she became the patroness of Puno, and her festivity has evolved into an event of great magnitude that brings together dances, music, faith, and a deep sense of cultural identity.

When and where is the Festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria celebrated?

The celebration of the Virgen de la Candelaria takes place every February in the city of Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, in the southern highlands of Peru.

The festivity lasts more than two weeks, starting on February 2nd, the central date in honor of the Virgin. During this period, the city fills with fervor with masses, processions, and an impressive display of traditional dances, in which thousands of dancers and musicians participate.

The Virgen de la Candelaria: Patroness and protectress of Puno

The Virgen de la Candelaria is considered the spiritual patroness of Puno, and her image is kept in the Minor Basilica of San Juan Bautista, located in the city center.

This advocation of the Virgin Mary is highly venerated by the people of Puno, as numerous miracles are attributed to her and her presence is deeply rooted in the region’s cultural identity. For devotees, the Virgin represents the union between the Catholic faith and ancestral Andean traditions.

Why is she called Virgen de la Candelaria?

The name Virgen de la Candelaria comes from the custom of carrying candles or “candelas” in her honor, symbolizing the light of Christ that guides believers.

This Marian advocation originated in the Canary Islands (Spain), from where it spread to America during the colonial era. In the case of Puno, the Virgin was adopted as the protector of the town, and her festivity was enriched with cultural and artistic elements of Andean origin.

Where else is the Festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria celebrated?

Although the most emblematic celebration takes place in Puno, Peru, the devotion to the Virgen de la Candelaria extends to other countries and regions. Some of the places where this festivity is also commemorated include:

• Arequipa and Cusco (Peru): Celebrations are held in her honor, although on a smaller scale than in Puno.
• Bolivia: In cities like Copacabana and La Paz, the Virgen de la Candelaria is venerated with religious festivities and processions.
• Argentina: In provinces like Jujuy and Salta, the Virgin is celebrated by the Andean communities.
• Chile: In the north of the country, especially in Iquique, masses and religious festivities are held.
• Spain: The Virgen de la Candelaria is the patroness of Tenerife (Canary Islands), where she has one of the oldest celebrations.

Climate in Puno during the Festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria

If you plan to travel to Puno to participate in this festivity, it is important to know the climate during this season.

• February is part of the rainy season in the Andes, so it is common for the weather to be cool and humid.
• The average temperature in Puno during the festivity ranges between 5°C and 15°C (41°F and 59°F), so it is advisable to wear warm and waterproof clothing.
• Due to the altitude of 3,827 meters (12,556 feet) above sea level, some visitors may experience altitude sickness, so it is suggested to take precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals in the first few days.

How is the Festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria celebrated in Puno?

The celebration of the Virgen de la Candelaria in Puno is one of the most impressive cultural manifestations in Peru and Latin America. Below, we tell you about some of the main activities of this festivity:

• Masses and Processions: The image of the Virgin is carried in procession through the city streets, accompanied by thousands of faithful carrying lit candles as a sign of devotion.
• Folk Dance Competitions: The feast is famous for the performance of over 40,000 dancers and 5,000 musicians, who perform typical dances such as the Diablada, Morenada, Caporales, Sikuris, and Tuntuna.
• Costume and Mask Parade: The costumes used in the dances are true works of art, made with vibrant colors, gold embroidery, and impressive masks.
• Gastronomic Fair: During the festivity, visitors can taste typical dishes from Puno such as chairo, fried trout, head soup (caldo de cabeza), and kankacho.
• Musicians’ Parade: The music bands perform traditional melodies that accompany the dances and processions throughout the celebration.

This festivity is not just a religious event but a vibrant expression of the cultural identity of the Peruvian Altiplano, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2014.