Magdalena de Cao, a district renowned for its warmth and cultural richness, has just added a new tourist attraction with Pasaje de la Cultura. This striking venue is made up of murals that pay homage to local traditions, such as artisanal fishing, handicrafts, gastronomy and its emblematic one-year chicha, among others.

This was possible thanks to the collaboration between the Wiese Foundation and the municipality of Magdalena de Cao, so now this Pasaje de la Cultura, in honor of local traditions, invites tourists to immerse themselves in a unique and authentic cultural experience.

What is the objective of Pasaje de Cultura?

The main mission of the exhibition of Pasaje de la Cultura is to valorize and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Magdalena de Cao. This was stated by Alex Tocto, director of operations of the Wiese Foundation and the CAEB.

"This project was born because we identified the need to valorize all the cultural wealth that exists in Magdalena de Cao, which was is inherited from 14 thousand years and that we consider should be known and valorized, because we value what we know and protect what we value. This is a source of pride for all the people of Magdalena de Cao and for all the visitors who can come to this venue," he said.

At the same time, Mayor Edgar Galarreta also highlighted the importance of the murals in the tourism ambit.

"Magdalena de Cao is a blessed district, with great potential. In this case, we can show the famous Lady of Cao, which is recognized worldwide and gives prominence and potential to this district. We have artisanal fishing, handicrafts and gastronomy. The main thing is to attract tourists and that those who visit us leave impressed by the culture that exists in Magdalena de Cao," he said.

What are the components of Pasaje de la Cultura?

In honor of cultural traditions, these are the activities highlighted by Pasaje de la Cultura: handicrafts, artisanal fishing, gastronomy and cultural representation.

Art

The murals represent a variety of cultural elements, from the daily life of the inhabitants of the area to the most iconic symbols of the Mochica culture. "Our handicrafts are based on promoting culture above all, which is what we have here in the El Brujo archaeological complex," said Luis Iparraguirre, a master wood carver and one of the artisans who contributed to the project.

"Now I feel proud thanks to the Wiese Foundation for having contributed to paying tribute to my talent," said as well Segundo Lozada, a specialist in high-relief murals.

The exhibition also pays homage to textile handicrafts and embroidery, an ancient practice that has endured thousands of years in the history of Magdalena de Cao. These depict Peruvian catfish, volutes and deities from ancient Peru.

Artisanal fishing and gastronomy

Artisanal fishing is another activity that is highlighted in the murals, imparting its importance within the community, as it is a vital element of the community's identity. The murals also pay tribute to the rich gastronomy of Magdalena de Cao, showing typical dishes and the traditional one-year chicha, which are an integral part of the local culture.

What does the community say about the murals?

Pasaje de la Cultura plays a role of great importance for the community, because it represents what Magdalena de Cao is. 

"Magdalena de Cao means, for me, a very welcoming town," stated María Justiniano, a local artisan.

"I am proud of my people, as we all represent the Mochica culture," said artisan Teresa García. "Magdalena for me, is the best," added Anita Iparraguirre.

Pasaje de la Cultura as a great example of tourism

The implementation of the Pasaje de la Cultura project is intended to attract tourists by offering an authentic and enriching experience. Testimonies indicate that the project is reinvigorating interest in the local culture and sharing the traditions of the community.

Ultimately, the combination of art, gastronomy and tradition in this venue provides an immersive experience that invites everyone to explore and appreciate the cultural richness of the district. We invite all travelers to walk through this passageway, immerse themselves in the living history of Magdalena de Cao and take with them a lasting memory of its vibrant culture!