The Rich Textile Tradition of Pitumarca: Celebrating a Cultural Heritage

On May 7th, we commemorate another anniversary of the Declaration as Cultural Heritage of the Nation of Knowledge, techniques, and uses associated with the traditional textile of the district of Pitumarca, province of Canchis, department of Cusco. This ancient Peruvian textile tradition is renowned for its historical, technological, iconographic, and artistic value, with symbolic content deeply rooted in the region's culture.

The Pitumarca textile tradition is believed to have originated from the daughter of Apu Ausangate, a snow-capped mountain considered as an ancestor and protective divinity in the region. She is said to have taught the art of weaving in Pitumarca, imparting her wisdom and skills to the local people.

Weavers in Pitumarca view their work as more than just artistic creations; they consider their textiles a means of communication. The iconography found within the intricate designs reflects their worldview, encompassing elements of nature, knowledge of the agricultural calendar, oral traditions, festivities, and daily life.

The textile techniques practiced and passed down through generations in Pitumarca showcase a mastery of various skills. These include yarn spinning with pushka, dyeing with natural dyes, and the use of diverse motifs or designs, which serve as symbolic and codifiable graphics that carry memories.

In the textile tradition of Pitumarca, there are three main techniques. The first utilizes the "away" waist loom or the four-stake loom. The second involves knitting fabrics with four sticks and a helping stick, originally made from ch'eqchi, a local bush. Lastly, the third technique features circular braided fabric called simp’awarak’a, which uses dyed or naturally colored llama fibers.

As we celebrate the anniversary of the recognition of Pitumarca's textile tradition as a cultural heritage, we honor and appreciate the unique artistic expression, skill, and cultural significance that has been preserved and passed down through generations. These textiles not only tell the story of the people of Pitumarca but also serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Peru.