Peruvian Culture

The culture in Peru is very pronounced in every manner. The women still dress in very traditional outfits consisting of large skits, hats tipped to the side of their head, and very colorful shawls draped around their bodies for carrying food and babies. They also wear their hair in long braids. Young female children will also be seen in dressed in a similar fashion.

The traditional music of the highlands is heard throughout the cities. This music is folk, with flutes and other instruments played.

The main religion is Roman Catholic. The main language is Spanish, however 70 other languages are spoke throughout the country.

Peru is famous for its varied and imaginative gastronomy. The primary ingredients found in nearly every Peruvian dish are rice, potatoes, chicken, pork, lamb, and fish. Two-hundred varieties of potatoes exist in this region and therefore, they are found in many dishes. Papa la Huancaina is such a dish-- potatoes served with a special spicy sauce, olives, lettuce, and egg. Seafood is very prevalent in cities along the coast, such as Lima. One seafood dish, ceviche, one of the most popular in Peruvian culture, is a must try for any tourist. In the highlands you can try roast guinea pig, or in the Amazon sample rice dishes baked in palm leaves.

Artwork and architecture has a Spanish influence of the renaissance time or baroque period. However, Indians soon began mixing their technique with the Spanish to create a style known as Mestizo, prevalent in the south. Artists also grew away from European influence and painted in more of a fairytale fashion.