The rainbow is a stunning natural wonder that received more attention, especially in the Andean region during pre-Hispanic times. Native populations held it in high regard, believing it could even enter the body. Historical accounts show that the rainbow often represented a strong bond, especially for the Incas.
They saw it as a symbol of their ruler, who led the community and possessed special power, and thought the rainbow was a divine protector. The rainbow colorful display is not just a beautiful sight; it also reflects a fascinating balance related to the forces that shape our world.
Join us as we explore the reasons why this beautiful natural phenomenon was important for the Incas, and how it still maintains its significance for Andean peoples.
The Rainbow: Divinity and Mythology
The rainbow has always been a cherished part of Andean culture. It is not just a beautiful natural sight; it also holds deep meaning and mythology. While different authors may have varying views on the rainbow’s role in Inca beliefs, one thing is clear: people always honored it and saw it as divine.
In some stories, the rainbow takes on the form of a god. For example, an author describes it as “Tulumaya”, a god sent by Viracocha, the creator god, to bring light to a world filled with darkness. On the other side, Garcilaso de la Vega offers a different view.
He suggests that the rainbow was not worshipped as a god, but it was respected as a servant of the Sun, alongside lightning and thunder, known as “Illapa”. He highlights that the rainbow was greatly admired because it was believed to come from the Sun.
On the other side, historians state that Kuychi was viewed as a messenger, connecting the Sun and the Inca king. This connection is evident in the symbols used by Inca Emperors on their weapons and coats of arms called “unanchas”, which they used as royal banners.
The Coricancha and the Rainbow: A Sacred Link
The reverence for the rainbow is also reflected in the design of the Coricancha temple, where a room was dedicated to the rainbow as a symbol of the Sun. This temple was a Sun worship site and had a gold room that showcased a bright painting of the rainbow, called Kuychu, just like the Inca deity.
Garcilaso said that, when a rainbow appeared, people would cover their mouths and teeth with their hands to avoid bad luck. This illustrates the deep respect and a hint of fear that people associate with the rainbow’s power.
Kuychi in Inca Beliefs: A Celestial Wonder
In Inca astronomy, the rainbow was seen as a magical sight. Considered mysterious and beautiful, appearing when sunlight shines through water droplets. This connection between the Sun, rain, and the rainbow gave Kuychi a special place in Inca beliefs.
Moreover, the rainbow was tied to the natural world. The Andean people believed its appearance signaled the rainy season from November to April. This connection made the rainbow a strong symbol of fertility and life cycles.
In Andean myths, the rainbow is often associated with the serpent, especially the Amaru, a two-headed snake. People believed that this mythical creature used to live in water springs, bringing the rainbow’s bright colors.
The serpent’s dual nature reflects the rainbow’s many colors, showing the balance between different forces in the universe. Just like the rainbow, the Amaru was both respected and feared. Some stories tell of a battle between two Amarus that caused flooding in a valley called Mantaro.
The legend says that from which the first humans, Mama and Taita, emerged. Legends apart, as you can see, the rainbow, as a sign of the Amaru, symbolizes both creation and destruction, representing the powerful forces of nature and a fundamental element in Inca and Andean Cosmovision.
The Rainbow in Andean Landscapes
The rainbow’s bright colors brighten the Andes skies enriching the region’s unique landscapes and cultures. This beautiful connection between nature and culture makes the rainbow a symbol of Andean richness. It offers visitors wonderful experiences filled with awe, history, and spirituality.
One of the most famous rainbow-inspired spots in the Andes is Vinicunca, also known as “Rainbow Mountain” in english or the “Seven Color Mountain” in Spanish. This stunning mountain is over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) high. Its colorful layers, formed over millions of years are thanks to minerals like iron and magnesium.
In the last decade, Vinicunca became a tourist hotspot. It now draws thousands of visitors each year, boosting the local economy through sustainable tourism. Other natural wonders, like the Palccoyo and Pallay Poncho mountains, are often called “rainbow mountains” as well.
The Rainbow in the Modern Andean World
Today, many Andean people still view the rainbow with awe and wonder. An elderly woman from Conchacalla said that she covers her mouth when she sees a rainbow to protect her teeth. She believes that kuychi could cause them to fall out.
This belief is still common in rural areas, as noted by researcher Gary Urton in Misminay, a village in the high Andes. The idea that the rainbow has seven colors is a popular belief, especially influenced by Western ideas, however, this is an oversimplification.
The rainbow also plays a special role in Andean celebrations, like the Inti Raymi in Cusco. During these festivities, communities showcase the Andes’ rich diversity with colorful dances and clothing. This celebration honors the Sun God, strengthening the link between nature and cultural identity.
In addition, during agricultural ceremonies and rituals for Pachamama, the rainbow is seen as a sign of prosperity and abundance. These heartfelt practices show the deep influence of ancestral beliefs on modern life, celebrating the Andean people’s enduring spirit.
Over 50 years ago, a radio station in Cusco held a contest to design a new flag for the city and the former Inca Empire. The winning design was inspired by the rainbow, and this flag later gained popularity, often referred to as the “Tahunatinsuyo flag.” This detail shows us, how even today, this symbol is so significant for people in the Andes.
Conclusion
The rainbow, or Kuychi, remains a strong symbol in Andean culture, embodying the bond between the Sun, rain, and nature, and still holds a special place in Andean culture. Kuychi also connects the ancient Inca Emperors to today’s beliefs.
People see it as a sign of good luck or a link to the divine. This beautiful sight is not just magical; it reminds us of the powerful forces that shape life in the Andes. Kuychi is truly a cherished symbol in this vibrant worldview.
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