Mapuche mythology
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In the mythology and beliefs of the Mapuche people, the "Machi" (Shaman), a role usually filled by older women, is an extremely important part of the Mapuche culture, even today and in parallel with Christianity. The machi performs ceremonies for the warding off of evil, for rain, for the cure of diseases, and has an extensive knowledge of Chilean medicinal herbs, gained during an arduous apprenticeship. Chileans of all origins and classes make use of the many traditional herbs known to the Mapuche.
The most important myths are, the legend of Trentren Vilu y Caicai Vilu, the Pillan spirits, the kalku, the Chonchon, the Wekufe spirirts (example: the Piuchen and the Nguruvilu), etc.
