In March 1991, the Mapuche organization Aukin Wallmapu Ngulam – Consejo de Todas las Tierras, known as the “Council of All Lands,” chose the Mapuche Flag of Pehuenche Territory.
Pehuenche People
The Pehuenche also known as the Pewenche, constitute an indigenous community in South America, residing primarily in the Andes, encompassing present-day south-central Chile and neighbouring Argentina.
During the 16th century, the Pehuenche inhabited mountainous regions spanning approximately 34 to 40 degrees south. Over time, they underwent Araucanization and, to some extent, integrated with the Mapuche people.
In the 21st century, they continue to preserve some of their ancestral lands.
Pehuenche Etymology
The name “Pehuenche” or “Pewenche” is derived from their dependence on the seeds of the Araucaria araucana, which is widely recognized as the monkey-puzzle tree, which translates to “pehuen” or “pewen” in Mapudungun.
Symbolic Significance
- Blue Represents life, order, wealth, and the universe. In Mapudungun, it also serves as an adjective conveying concepts of “sacred” or “spiritual.”
- White symbolizes purification, healing, and longevity, embodying wisdom and prosperity.
- Green Represents the earth or nature, encapsulating wisdom, fertility, and the healing energy of the land. Additionally, it is linked to the symbol of the machi, a Mapuche shaman.
- Red Represents strength and power, serving as a symbol of historical significance.
Other Flags of the Mapuche Territories
