CERRO CALVARIO

This is the hill of rituals in Copacabana. The hike begins at the foot of a white church at the end of Calle Destacamento. Christians climb to the top following twelve stops each marked by crosses that evoke the path followed by Christ. You will notice piles of pebbles at the foot of the crosses that represent the sins of the faithful. By depositing them during the ascent, they allow pilgrims to have their transgressions forgiven. Then, in the middle of the route, there is a platform where the Yatiris (sorcerers) are gathered to proceed to the ch'alla of objects brought by the believers. Booths filled with miniature houses and cars, as well as flowers, figurines, candles and fake money are sold to the faithful so that they can implore the blessing of the Lord and the Virgin. This popular rite is supposed to guarantee, in the future, the possession of these objects, but real this time! In pre-Columbian times, the Indians climbed this hill in adoration to their god of thunder, Illapa, begging him to bring the precious rain that would ensure good harvests. Finally, it is from this point that you can admire the most grandiose sunsets.

At thetime of your rise, you will see a path leaving on the right. If you follow it, you will reach Cerro Santa Bárbara, the female hill that answers the male hill of Calvario. This one, much lower, is however the place of ceremonies carried out in August by other Yatiris.