Ekeko
Sign in to savethumb|Representation of the Ekeko in La Paz, [[Bolivia]]
Article
10 sectionsContents
- Etymology
- Origins
- Pre-Columbian references
- Characteristics
- Description
- Purpose
- Legend of Ekeko
- Central role in the Alasitas festival
- Notes
- External links
thumb|Representation of the Ekeko in La Paz, [[Bolivia]]
The Ekeko (contemporary Aymara spelling: Iqiqu) is the Tiwanakan (pre-Columbian civilization) god of abundance and prosperity in the mythology and folklore of the people from the Altiplano. Its chief importance in popular culture is as the main figure of the annual Alasitas fair, a cultural event that happens every January 24 in La Paz, Bolivia. The Ekeko is a traditional god of luck and prosperity popular in the western region of Bolivia. In Peru the main festival is celebrated on May 3 of every year in the city of Puno, on the Machallata hill.