Q'ero |The Last of the Incas

This photo essay was focused on capturing the unique culture of the Q'ero people, who are the last direct descendants of the Inca, who live in one of the most remote places in the Peruvian Andes, with rugged elevations of snowcapped mountains. According to the Vanishing Cultures Foundation Inc, six major Q'ero villages are home to about 600 people and 6000 llamas & alpacas. The Q'ero practice mutual reciprocity to achieve life in balance with nature and community and respect for all living things. The Q'ero people are well known for practicing mysticism and passing on ancient knowledge by preserving their cultural identity through oral traditions. Although the Q'ero does not practice any particular religion, they are highly spiritual and live in harmony with Mother Earth or "Pachamama." Small chortan-like structures with offerings for Pachamama mark mountain passages between villages. Q'ero people's lives are Earth-centric and revolve around farming potatoes and mazes, rearing alpacas, and weaving wool. The unique Inca-like patterns characterize their master weaving style. Grass-thatched roofs cover the huts built with stone and earth, preserving the traditional way of life of the Q'ero people.