When people hear about Inti Raymi, they often focus on the celebration itself. Yet the location is part of the story too.
This year’s gathering will take place at the Chobshi Archaeological Complex near Sígsig, one of southern Ecuador’s most significant cultural and archaeological landscapes.
For thousands of years, people have lived, traveled, gathered, and left their mark in these valleys. Chobshi is home to the ancient Black Cave (Cueva Negra), evidence of some of Ecuador’s earliest known inhabitants. Later came the Cañari, the Inca, and the communities who continue to live, work, celebrate, and care for these lands today.
More than an archaeological destination, Chobshi is a place where history, landscape, community, and living traditions continue to meet.
What makes the site remarkable is not only its age, but its continuity. Across generations, people have continued to gather here in relationship with the land, the seasons, one another, and the rhythms of life.
Perhaps that is what makes Chobshi such a fitting place for Inti Raymi.
Not because it is ancient, but because it reminds us that traditions are not relics of the past. They are living expressions of culture, community, reciprocity, and belonging that continue to evolve today.
On June 20, local communities will once again gather in Chobshi for music, cultural activities, artisan traditions, food, archaeology, ceremony, and celebration.
Limited free round-trip transportation from Cuenca is being provided by the Municipality of Sígsig for registered participants.
If you’d like more information about the event, transportation, cultural orientation resources, or how to register, send me a message.
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City: Azuay
