The Chakana is a mystical symbol of the Inca.

The word Chakana derives from “Chakay” meaning “to cross” in Quechua, the Inca language.

Like most mystical symbols, the Chakana has layers of meaning.

In its simplest it represents the Southern Cross. And this image can be seen in many Incan ruins, while the Southern Cross can be found in many representations including in Machu Picchu.

The 4 arms of the Chakana are thought also to represent the Tawantinsuyu – the 4 provinces of the Inca which were centred on Cusqo, the Inca canpital. Cusqo is represented as the hole in the centre of the Chakana.

The Steps on each side of the Chakana are thought to represent

1. the celestial world of the gods - Hanan Pacha
2. the world of the living - Kay Pacha
3. the world of death – Ughu Pacha

These tiers may also be redefined as: underground, earth, and sky; earth, thunder, cloud; snake, puma, and condor among the sacred animals of the Inca; or village, Sapa Inca, and temple for dividing the Incan harvest. These tiers might also be reflected in the windows in the temples of Machu Picchu.

We acknowledge our gratitude to the Inca for raising and refining the Alpaca.

The colours of the Chakana that we use here on our website are the colours of the Inca flag that is used to represent Cusqo.