El Perú Nació Serrano
Gaitan Castro
Celebrating the Roots and Grandeur of Peru
The song "El Perú Nació Serrano" by Gaitan Castro is a vibrant homage to the cultural and historical roots of Peru. The title itself, which translates to "Peru was born in the highlands," sets the tone for a narrative that emphasizes the Andean origins of the nation. The lyrics poetically describe the birth of Peru from the 'blue entrails' of Lake Titicaca, under the sun of the Incas, and cradled by the traditional Andean music of quenas (flutes) and antaras (panpipes), accompanied by the huayno, a genre of music and dance native to the Andean region.
The song then transitions to illustrate the growth of Peru, referencing the chasqui, the Inca messengers who traversed the vast network of roads connecting the empire. It speaks of the diverse landscapes, from valleys and highlands to rivers, snow-capped mountains, and jungles, extending to the coastal regions of Tacna and Tumbes. This verse celebrates the geographical and ecological diversity that contributed to the nation's expansion and richness.
Finally, the song declares that Peru is eternal, a testament to its enduring legacy. It highlights the imperial city of Cusco, the sacred site of Machu Picchu, and the historical significance of the Quechua, Chanca, and Aymara peoples. The reference to Sacsayhuaman, a ceremonial complex of the Incas, underscores the deep connection between the Peruvian identity and its ancient civilizations. The song is a proud declaration of Peru's past, its cultural heritage, and the indelible mark left by its ancestors on the land and its people.
