Business in Peru

The main religion of Peru is Catholicisim, inheriting its roots from the Spanish conquest (75% of the population). Since the 16th century, belief and practice of the native religion, based on the cult of the Sun, the Pachamama (Mother Earth) and nature has developed. Although Article 50 of the Constitution recognizes seperation of church and state, it mentions that the Catholic Church's role is "an important element in the historical, cultural, and moral development of the nation." 

 

In addition, the typical ceremonial functions of the state are influenced by religion, "beginning with the inauguration of the president with high mass in the cathedral, Holy Week events, and the observances of major Peruvian saints' days and festivals, such as that of Santa Rosa de Lima (Saint Rose of Lima) and others." 

 

On a more local level,  every village, town, and city has its own official church or cathedral and special holidays. Participation in these events comes from both religious devotion and desire to serve in community functions for prestige and possibly political purposes, including the patronal festivals that each city annually celebrates.