The Andean civilizations left an enormous legacy in terms of their cultural expressions: textiles, crafts, goldwork, and architecture; in addition, even the sciences—among them astronomy, agriculture, and medicine—demonstrate a great degree of social and cultural development. Among the traditions passed down by these cultures, the use of symbols to convey messages and customs stands out.
The use of symbolism was not exclusive to the Inca civilization, but it was the Incas who spread its use widely and developed a notable presence for it in their architecture, textiles, and crafts.
