INCAN MYTHOLOGY
The Incan civilization held a vibrant mythology. Like many Indigenous communities, the Incas revered the natural world, attributing religious importance to mountains, rivers, and animals.
Their pantheon consisted of gods and goddesses that governed various aspects of life.
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Regarded as the supreme being, Viracocha brought order to the universe and shaped humanity. It was said that he brought forth the first Incan ruler and taught humanity knowledge and civilization.
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Was married to Viracocha and the Goddess of the Seas. Holding importance to the fisherman of ancient Peru, Mama Cocha was said to protect the seas and keep waters safe and calm, providing good fortune in fishing expeditions.
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Is the earth goddess, embodied the sacredness of nature and was revered as the mother of all things. The Incas recognized her as a benevolent deity who provided sustenance and protection.
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Inti was the most sacred deity, he symbolized life and was seen as the ancestor and protector of the Incan people. Inti was believed to provide warmth, light, and agricultural fertility. Inti married his sister, Mama Quilla.
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As the sister and wife of Inti, she represented fertility, femininity, and nurturing. The Incas believed that Mama Quilla governed the cycles of the moon and influenced the growth of crops.
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Son from the union of Inti and Mama Quilla. The founder of the Incan Empire and first ruler. He was said to be a Sun God and according to legend was sent to earth by his father Inti and mother Mama Quilla.
From Viracocha and Mama Cocha's marriage came three children: Pachamama, Inti, and Mama Quilla. Three additional prominent Gods and Goddesses were responsible for the safekeeping of the Incan empire.
Illustrations by Herbert M. Herget (American illustrator, 1885-1950) - (February 1938). "In the Realm of the Sons of the Sun".
