Inca Rainbow

Last updated on September 16, 2023

The Inca Rainbow: A Divine Gift from the Sun God

Rainbows have long been regarded as magical and awe-inspiring natural phenomena. Among the ancient civilizations that revered these ethereal displays of color was the Inca Empire, whose majestic ruins at Machu Picchu in Peru still stand as a testament to their rich cultural heritage. For the Incas, the rainbow was more than just a beautiful spectacle; it was seen as a gift from Inti, the sun god, and held deep symbolic significance. In fact, the multi-colored flag of the Inca Empire, known as Tawantinsuyo, was a representation of their sacred land.

At Machu Picchu, where the altitude is considerable and the air is often laden with mist and drizzle, the conditions are ripe for the formation of vibrant rainbows. One particularly striking example was captured in January 2008 by photographer Colin Summerell. The image shows not only the primary rainbow but also its less common counterpart, the secondary rainbow, which appears in a reversed order of colors.

What makes this Inca rainbow unique is its slightly wider and more pastel appearance. This can be attributed to the smaller water droplets present in the light drizzle that formed the rainbows, as opposed to the larger drops typically associated with heavy rain showers. These smaller droplets diffract light differently, resulting in a softer and more delicate color palette.

While rainbows are commonly seen arching across the sky, it is worth noting that in this particular instance, the primary and secondary rainbows appear in an unconventional location. Instead of spanning the horizon, they manifest within the precipice and below it. This intriguing phenomenon is due to the high elevation of the sun, which was above 42° during the time of observation. Such a positioning of the sun alters the angle at which light is refracted through the water droplets, causing the rainbows to form at an atypical angle.

To fully appreciate the wonder of the Inca rainbow, it is essential to understand the science behind its formation. Rainbows occur when sunlight is refracted, or bent, as it passes through water droplets in the air. This bending of light causes the different colors within the visible spectrum to separate and form a circular arc of colors. The primary rainbow is the result of a single reflection and refraction of light within the droplets, while the secondary rainbow is formed by a double reflection and refraction.

The vibrant colors we see in a rainbow are a result of the dispersion of light, with each color corresponding to a different wavelength. When sunlight enters a water droplet, it undergoes both refraction and internal reflection, separating into its component colors. As the light exits the droplet, it is refracted again, causing the colors to fan out and form the distinctive arc we associate with rainbows.

In addition to their scientific explanation, rainbows have held deep cultural and spiritual significance throughout history. For the Inca civilization, the rainbow was seen as a bridge between the earthly realm and the divine. It symbolized the connection between mortals and the sun god Inti, who was believed to send rainbows as a sign of his blessings and favor.

The Inca rainbow at Machu Picchu serves as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the ancient civilization that once thrived in the Andes Mountains. It is a testament to the Incas' deep reverence for nature and their belief in the mystical powers of the natural world. Today, visitors to Machu Picchu can witness these breathtaking rainbows for themselves, immersing themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty that captivated the Inca people centuries ago.

In conclusion, the Inca rainbow at Machu Picchu is not only a stunning visual spectacle but also a symbol of cultural significance. Its unique formation, influenced by the altitude, mist, and drizzle of the region, showcases the intricate interplay between light and water droplets. By understanding the science behind rainbows and appreciating their cultural importance, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that surround us. The Inca rainbow stands as a testament to the enduring allure of these captivating displays of color and light.

Rainbows at the Inca site of Machu Picchu, Peru imaged in Jan '08 by Colin Summerell. Image ©Colin Summerell, shown with permission.

The Incas regarded the rainbow as a gift from the sun god and their multi-coloured flag represents Tawantinsuyo their land.

Here the sun was higher than 42° and the inner primary and reversed colour secondary bows appear in the precipice and below the horizon. They are slightly wider and more pastel than usual indicating that they were formed by the smaller water drops of light drizzle rather than the larger ones of a heavy rain shower.

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