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Witch Markets of South America.
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Curious as to the place where Witches gather to sell their wares? Is your love potion still missing a little something? Always wanted to experience firsthand the power of the natural world when it comes to health and well being? Come journey with your San Diego Gay Travel Examiner as he introduces you to the 'Mercado de Brujos' or Witch Markets of South America.
Witches, Healers, Brujos, Oh My…
From the depths of South America, a vibrant and rich tradition of natural healing and spirituality meets modern day with a history that spans back across the centuries. This tradition endured the European colonization efforts of the late 1400's through the late 1500's along with its Inquisition trials which saw the deaths of many of its followers, and other innocent bystanders. The countries of Peru and Bolivia play host to the biggest and best example of these 'Mercado de Brujos.'
Mercado de Brujos - Chiclayo, Peru
The Witch Market of Peru, is known locally as the 'Mercado de Brujos'. The city of Chiclayo located in norther Peru plays host to the largest and best known example of the Witches Market. Natural Healers in Peru are called Curanderos, and they sell all sorts of things like Shark Jaws, Deer Legs and my favorite the Huayruro (Jingly beads for warding off evil and the random hex.)
If you are an adventurous soul traveling with a local you trust I suggest trying this markets well known speciality of a mildly hallucinogenic drink. This drink is made from dried mountain herbs and the San Pedro cacti, which when sliced and boil together (Each Curanderos has a different recipe, being a closely guarded secret) is meant to open your mind and heart to the veiled world around you, usually reserved for Shamans.
The markets Shamans can be contracted via a local to do fortune telling or healing sessions. Once again I suggest befriending a local before you contact any shamans or curanderos as they can be a con-artist, or work in what is best known as 'dark magic.' Always protect yourself, if you are feeling threatened leave the situation as soon as you can safely do so.
Mercado de Hechiceria - La Plaza, Bolivia
Located in the world famous city of La Plaza, Bolivia this Witch Market differs from its sisters in the fact that is meant to be tourist friendly. I like to refer to it as the Bolivian Diagon Alley (you know the magical alley that supplies all sorts magical items from the Harry Potter books.)
In this Witches Market they seem to specialize in dried llama fetuses, yes thats right, the market stalls offer dried llama fetuses. These speciality items are believed by locals to bring good luck if you are moving houses, you are meant to bury it in the new house's garden or in its foundation.
I highly recommend taking a day if you are in La Plaza to explore this Witches Market, as it will prove to be an eye-opening experience. One word of caution, don't eat or drink anything offered at this market unless you know the source or are traveling with a local you trust who can recommend it.
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