Happy TravellerWelcome to Chincha Alta, a historic city located in the Ica Region of Peru. With a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Chincha Alta is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Peru. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this city so special.
Geography:
Chincha Alta is situated 200 kilometers south of Lima, in the Chincha Province of the Ica Region of Peru. The city covers an area of 2988 km2 and has a population of 56,085.
History:
Chincha Alta has a fascinating history that dates back to the ninth century. The first inhabitants of the area were known as the Pre-Chincha, who were centered on fishing and shell gathering. In the eleventh century, the Chincha arrived in the coastal area and developed systems of architecture, agriculture, and irrigation. The Chincha worshiped an ocelot god and believed themselves to be descended from ocelots, which gave them their warlike and dominating tendencies. Between 1458 and 1460, the Chincha were conquered by the armies of the Inca Empire led by Tupac Inca Yupanqui. The Chincha region was then conquered by the Spanish, and the area suffered a 99 percent decline in population in the first 85 years of Spanish rule. In the early 19th Century, Chincha was known to British mariners as Chinca or Chinka. The city, along with others near the Pacific coast, was damaged during the 2007 Peru earthquake.
Culture:
Chincha Alta is known for its thriving Afro-Peruvian culture. The Afro-Peruvian residents of El Carmen district practice many traditional dances, and the use of the Cajón drum, maracas, and other traditional instruments figure prominently in Afro-Peruvian music, which is popular throughout the region. During February, the Verano Negro festival is held, celebrating Afro-Peruvian food, music, culture, and dance. The cuisine of the Chincha Alta area is considered distinct from other parts of Peru because of its African background.
Anthem:
The anthem of Chincha Alta was composed in 1984 by Mrs. Ana Maria del Solar and Manolo Andrade Avalos, creators of the music and lyrics respectively, and approved by Municipal Resolution No. 1440 on 30 October of the same year. It has a chorus and three verses which commend and exalt the beauty of the Chincha region as well as the courage and heroism of its people.
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to add Chincha Alta to your itinerary. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s a destination that’s not to be missed.
