Amaru
SACRED SNAKE
This symbol is the Amaru, a revered serpent in Andean cosmology. The geometric shapes intertwine to evoke its undulating body, symbolizing fluidity and continuous movement, while the patterns highlight its connection with both earth and water. The Amaru is a powerful being that resides in rivers, lakes, and the depths of the earth. It symbolizes ancestral wisdom, renewal, and transformation, as it is associated with the underworld (Ukhu Pacha). The Amaru is a mediator between the worlds: Kay Pacha (the earthly world), Hanan Pacha (the upper world), and Ukhu Pacha (the lower world).
Apu Ausangate y sus Animales
Ausangate Apu Mountain and his animals
The symbol of Apu Ausangate incorporates representations of local animals from the region and Andean Cosmology: the taruka (deer in Quechua), the Uturunku (jaguar or otorongo in Quechua), and the Vicuñas ( Alpaca in Quechua). The central design of the symbol represents the mountain, with figures of these animals arranged around it. The taruka (deer) symbolizes agility and adaptation to high altitudes, while the Uturunku (jaguar) represents power, mystery, and strength. The vicuñas, known for their fine wool, are depicted to highlight their grace and their importance in the Andean economy and culture. The vicuñas wool is essential for the creation of these beautiful capes. These symbols reflect the deep respect and protection that the Pacchanta community feels for their natural environment, as well as their role as guardians of Apu Ausangate and the beings that inhabit its lands.
Apu Vininkunca
Rainbow mountain
The symbol of Apu Vininkunca (Rainbow Mountain) is a tribute to the vibrant majesty and unique beauty of this geological wonder. The bold, straight lines representing the colorful layers that give Apu Vininkunca it's name. This symbol celebrates the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain, and pays homage to the Earth and its ancestral wisdom.
Chakana
CHAKANA
The symbol of the Chakana is a sacred representation of the Andean cosmovision, and the connection between the earthly and spiritual worlds. Also known as the Andean Cross, the Chakana is formed by four arms representing the cardinal points, and a center symbolizing the point of balance and harmony. Each arm of the Chakana is adorned with symbols and geometric patterns representing important aspects of life and nature, such as the sun, the moon, the stars, and natural elements. In some cases, the Chakana is surrounded by natural elements such as mountains, reflecting the interconnection between the earth and the cosmos in the Andean cosmovision. This complex network of symbols reflects the deep understanding and reverence that the inhabitants of Pacchanta have for cosmic order and universal harmony. The Chakana is a reminder of the spiritual connection and ancestral wisdom that guide the life of the community.
Inka Mesa Q'epe
INCA ceremonial Altar
The Mesa Q’epe is a table used for offerings in the Andes, where the inhabitants of Pacchanta and the Andes keep their sacred elements (like illas and enqas) . The illas are small figures made of stone or metal representing animals, plants, or mythical beings, while the enqas are sacred stones that symbolize the connection with the divine. The Mesa Q’epe is an essential element in the ritual practices of Pacchanta, and there are families with shaman ancestors who continue to keep these traditions during carnivals (a time of fertility) and in July for the Santiago festivities, where they ask for a good life for their animals. In these sacred spaces, offerings are placed to thank and ask for blessings from the Apus, Pachamama, and other beings. The detailed and repetitive geometric patterns symbolize the order and structure of the ritual, while the crossed shapes represent the table itself and the arrangement of the offerings
Kuka K'intucha
Three sacred leaves of coca
The sacred coca leaf have a deep cultural, spiritual, and social value in the Pacchanta community and Andean culture in general. The arrangement of three leaves in the design alludes to the "k'intu," a means to express intentions and promote well-being. This plant is used in ceremonies and rituals as an offering to the Apus (mountain spirits) and Pachamama (Mother Earth) in gratitude and to request protection and blessings. Sharing coca is an act of respect and friendship within the community, and it is traditionally used as a natural remedy for various ailments. Through this symbol, the women weavers convey their respect and gratitude toward the coca leaf, ensuring that its legacy and cultural value endure for future generations.
Kuntur
condor
The Kuntur (Condor) symbol is a majestic representation of the large and powerful spirit that dwells in the skies of the Andes. The condor is depicted with its wings spread, in perpetual flight over the mountains and valleys that make up the community's home. Its elegant contours and piercing gaze capture the very essence of this sacred bird, considered a messenger between the earthly and spiritual worlds in Andean cosmology. The condor's feathers reflect the beauty and grandeur of this animal, while its presence in the weaving symbolizes the protection and guidance it offers to the inhabitants of Pacchanta. The condor symbol also connects with the Hanaq Pacha, the celestial world in Andean cosmology. According to ancestral beliefs, the condor is considered a celestial being, a link between the earthly and spiritual worlds. In this sense, its presence in Pacchanta's weavings not only symbolizes protection and guidance on the physical plane but also suggests a connection with the divine forces that govern the universe. Thus, this symbol not only honors the tangible presence of the condor in Pacchanta's daily life but also evokes the spiritual presence and transcendence that permeate human existence in the Andes.
Huch'uy Qochakuna
LITTLE LAGOONS
This design represents the small lagoons scattered across the mountainous landscape. These vital bodies of water are fundamental to the life and culture of Pacchanta, providing water for agriculture, consumption, and playing a crucial role in ceremonies and rituals. This symbol reflects the gratitude and respect that the Pacchanta community has towards these bodies of water, acknowledging their essential role in sustaining life and in cultural and ceremonial practices.
Huallata
ANDEAN GOOSE
This symbol represents the Huallata, a prominent bird in the Cusco region and the Pacchanta community. The Huallata is a symbol of purity and connection with sacred spaces, such as the Apus. In the Pacchanta community, this bird is seen as a being that unites the skies with the earth, flying over the protective Apus. Its song is considered a blessing and a sign of good fortune, especially during planting and harvest times. The Huallata is also a symbol of resilience and adaptation, where survival in the cold mountainous environment requires strength and flexibility.
Montaña del Apu Ausangate
Ausangate apu mountain
The symbol of Apu Ausangate communicates the profound bond between the inhabitants of Pacchanta and this Sacred Mountain. This mountain has been a refuge for the community for centuries and is considered their primary deity. The community expresses their reverence and gratitude to Apu Ausangate and pays homage to its majesty through weaving. Apu Ausangate is created with a triangular composition that reflects both the beautiful of the Apu and the contrasts of its rugged geography
Qochawan Intiwan
lake and sun
This symbol represents the Pacchanta lagoon and the sun reflected on its surface, using patterns to illustrate the relationship between the lagoon and the sun. The zigzag lines and rhombuses within the design symbolize the waves and movement of the water in the lagoon, reflecting how the surface interacts with sunlight, creating stunning glints and reflections. These symbols highlight the symbiosis between water and sunlight, also representing the energy and life that the sun imparts to the entire community. In Andean cosmology, water and the sun are sacred, and their interaction is a symbol of vitality and the blessing that both elements bring to Pacchanta. This symbol is a way to honor and give thanks for the life and abundance provided by the lagoon and the sun.
Orqo Uturunku Qocha & China Uturunku Qocha
Otorongo Male Lagoon & Otorongo Female Lagoon
The symbol of the Otorongo Macho and Otorongo Hembra lagoons is a powerful representation of balance. In this design, the two lagoons are depicted in perfect symmetry, separtaed by a horizontal line. This symbol of the Otorongo Macho and Otorongo Hembra lagoons honors the inherent duality in all things and the importance of finding harmony with the world around us. This symbol reminds us of the interconnectedness of all aspects of life, and the need to respect and celebrate diversity in all its forms.
Qochakuna & Apukuna
Lagoons and Apus - STYLE 1
The Qochakuna & Apukuna (lagoons and apus) symbol represents the environment surrounding the Pacchanta community, and shows the spiritual between the community and its nature. In this design, the lagoons of Pacchanta are depicted as diamonds. The Apus, the mountains watching over the horizon and protecting the community, are represented by triangular peaks. This symbol illustrates the sacred bond between the people of Pacchanta and the nature that surrounds them.
Lagoons and Apus - STYLE 2
The is a poetic expression of the harmony between Qocha (lagoons) water and Apus (mountains) in the sacred landscape of the Andes. In this design, the lagoons stand out in the center, drawn with smooth and fluid lines that evoke their calmness and serenity. Around them, the peaks of the Apus rise outlined with strong triangles, reflecting their greatness and power. These sacred mountains surround the lagoons, protecting them and serving as eternal guardians of the land and its inhabitants. This symbol is a visual balance that symbolizes the intrinsic connection between the sky and the earth, water and rock.
Pumaq Yupi
PUMA PAWPRINT
The puma is a powerful and revered animal, symbolizing strength, protection, and connection with the earth. The puma is honored as a spiritual guardian of the community and nature, and is closely related to the Kay Pacha, the earthly world in Andean cosmology. The Kay Pacha is one of the three levels of the Andean universe, representing the world where humans, animals, and plants interact. The pattern of the puma's footprint has six repetitive geometric figures that create the impression of a paw print. The puma's footprint reflect a deep respect for this animal and its role within the community, illustrating the interdependence between the land, living beings, and cultural practices of Pacchanta.
Tawa Qocha
FOUR LAGOONS
The symbol of the Four Lagoons is a manifestation of the sacred connection between the community and the natural elements that surround it. The lagoons are Represented by four concentric diamonds in a balanced arrangement, reflecting the harmony and interconnectedness between the Pacchanta and the surrounding natural environment. The symbol of the Four Lagoons emphasizes the importance of these bodies of water to the daily life of Pacchanta.
Tayta Inti
father sun
This symbol represents Father Sun, a central figure in Andean culture and in the community of Pacchanta. In Andean cosmology, Tayta Inti (Father Sun), is one of the most revered deities, symbolizing life, energy, and fertility. For the inhabitants of Pacchanta, the sun is not only a source of light and warmth but also a spiritual symbol of vitality and renewal. The weavings that incorporate this symbol pay homage to Inti, recognizing his essential role in daily life and in the agricultural practices of the region. These weavings reflect the community's gratitude and respect toward the sun, honoring its importance in the perpetuation of life and in maintaining harmony with the natural environment.
Tika
FLOWER
T'ika (flower) is a representation of the beauty, vitality, and renewal found in nature. This design depicts a stylized flower, with petals opening from the center. The flower symbolizes abundance and fertility in the Andean cosmovision, and its presence in Pacchanta's textiles is a reminder of the earth's generosity and the importance of honoring and respecting the natural world around us. Additionally, the flower also represents renewal and the cycle of life, as it blooms and withers with the seasons. In Pacchanta's textiles, the flower is a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, and the need to protect and preserve its splendor for future generations.
Yanantin
COMPLEMENTARITY
Yanantin is a fundamental principle in Andean culture: it is a daily practice aimed at maintaining balance and harmony in all aspects of life. This principle teaches that diversity and difference are not sources of division but of wealth and strength when they are mutually recognized. The design is created through geometric shapes in symmetrical patterns that mirror each other, symbolizing duality and balance. The interlocking diamonds represent two opposing forces that, when united, create harmony and balance within the community. The base features zigzag lines, symbolizing the movement and connection between these forces. Through Yanantin, the community of Pacchanta finds guidance for living in harmony with nature and other communities.