Lake Titicaca is the Birthplace of the Creator of this World
Sacred Waters | April 23, 2010Located on the frontier amidst Peru and Bolivia besides Copacabana, Lake Titicaca is famous for its blue beauty and spiritual significance in the Incan mythology. According to Incas, the creator God Viracoca emerged from the lake making it holy to create the world. Just a short time ago, a large temple was found sunken in the lake that was in alignment with the known belief. The lake is among the largest, highest, and deepest lake on the planet.
Legend
Following a devastating flood, the god Viracocha occurred from the Lake Titicaca to create the sun (Inti), moon (Mama Kilya), and stars. Then, he proceeded towards Tiahuanaco to bring the first human beings into existence named Mallku Kapac and Mama Ocllo. These were the Inca Adam and Eve made from stone, who were ordered by the creator God to inhabit the world. Therefore, Lake Titicaca is regarded as the origin of the Incas, whose spirits come back here after death.
Attractions
Along with the Lake Titicaca, there are some 41 sacred islands on the lake.
- Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun):
This is most significant island on the Bolivia side as it is the abode of the Inca God, Inti. It is the largest lake island. Towards its northern tip, the town of Challapampa holds the charming Chinkana (labyrinth) in its vast stone complex. It is said to be a teaching hub of the Inca priests. There is also a natural spring under the island, which occurs again in a holy fountain in the Yumani town on the southern tip. This is the largest area on the island holding the sacred 206 Inca steps taking you to the town and a sacred stone fountain having three springs and symbolizing to be a fountain of youth. While returning to the Challapampa town, you will see a sacred rock appearing as a puma followed by two giant footprints marking the event of sun’s falling to the Earth to produce the Adam and Eve of the Incas. Do view the sunset from its highest point on the lighthouse.
- Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon):
This is abode of the Inca goddess Mama Kilya. Here, the selected women called as the “Virgins of the Sun,” resided at this island living a life of a nun. They used to make garments using the alpaca wool and observed rituals devoted to the sun. The edifices were the efforts of the pre-Incan Aymara culture, but the Incas also contributed to the same, for example, in the form of the trapezoidal doors.
- Uros Islands or Floating Islands (Islas Flotantes):
These are the artificial islands of reeds located on the Peru side. The islands housed the descendents of the old Uros culture known for their simple and traditional life. This culture incorporates the living style and religious values of traditional Indian and Catholic sects. Upon death, the body is buried on the mainland. - Paccha Mama (Mother Earth) and Paccha Tata (Father Earth):
These are the two holy mountains on which people in traditional wear climb on 18th January each year. Celebrated as a festival, the pilgrims offer coca leaves, grains, and alcohol to the land after descending in two separate groups.
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Lake Titicaca is a lake located on the border of Peru and Bolivia. It sits 3,812 m above sea level, making it one of the highest commercially navigable lakes in the world.
By volume of water, it is also the largest lake in South America.