Mario Valencia, also known as ‘Cristo Cholo’, delighted the public with a successful performance of the Way of the Cross this Holy Friday. The 66-year-old artist embarked on a journey that took him through the Cathedral of Lima, the Santa Rosa church, Las Nazarenas, San Marcelo, El Carmen, San Francisco, and Santo Domingo, before culminating on the hill of San Cristobal.
Accompanied by a team from RPP, Valencia covered nearly 1,500 linear meters to reach the summit of San Cristobal hill. Despite facing physical challenges due to a recent injury, Valencia expressed his gratitude to the parishioners who joined him on this sacred journey. The actor’s portrayal of the crucifixion scene, carrying a 90-kilo cross, was a moving tribute to the Easter season.
The staging on San Cristobal hill marked a significant moment for Valencia, as the event had been paused for seven years following a tragic accident in 2017. Valencia used this opportunity to call for the annual event, which has been a tradition for 46 years, to be declared a cultural heritage of religious events and customs in Peru.
Valencia’s commitment to bringing the story of Jesus Christ to life during Holy Week is a testament to his dedication to preserving and sharing cultural traditions. Despite not receiving financial gain from the performances, Valencia continues to captivate audiences with his heartfelt portrayals of the Stations of the Cross.