Apu (god)


In the religion and mythology of Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia, apus are the spirits of the mountains and sometimes solitary rocks and caves, that protect the local people in the highlands. The term dates back to the Inca Empire.

Meanings of Apu

The word "Apu" has several possible meanings, depending on context.
Apu means "Lord" in Quechua. The Inca religion uses the term Apu to refer to a mountain that has a spirit that is alive. Body and energy bubble of the mountain together form his wasi.
Besides mountains there are other living beings that are considered as Apus - the so-called Tekse Apus. In the Andean tradition Pachamama, Wiraqocha, Father Sun, Father Wind, Mother Water, Mother Moon and Mother Stars can be seen all over the world, that is why they are called Tekse Apus, which means Global Apus. Jesus Christ and Mother Mary for the same reason are also called Tekse Apus.

Apus

The twelve sacred apus of Cusco are: Ausangate, Salkantay, Mama Simona, Pillku Urqu, Manuel Pinta, Wanakawri, Pachatusan, Pikchu, Saksaywaman, Viraqochan, Pukin, and Sinqa.
Other Apus in Bolivia and Peru are: Akamari, Antikuna, Chachani, Kimsa Chata, Illampu, Lady of Illimani, Machu Picchu, Pitusiray, Putucusi, Qullqipunku, Sinaqara, Tunupa, Willka Wiqi, Wamanrasu, Wayna Picchu and Yanantin.