Monday, September 08, 2008

Lake of Blood



During our driving tour, we made a complete circle around a place called the "Lake of Blood," Yahuarcocha in Quichua. The lake gets its name from a terrible battle fought between warring tribes before the Spanish conquest. The victors executed more than 10,000 enemy warriors and dumped their bodies into the lake. Blood flowed from their throats and turned the entire lake red.

Such a gruesome history!

Now the lake is a popular destination with the local people. Everywhere we looked we saw signs of enjoyment: carnaval rides, food stands, children flying kites, kayaks on the water, and a racetrack. What a contrast with the past!

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