The errors and superstitions of the Indians, taken from the treatise and investigation made by the licentiate Polo

Abstract

This treatise delves into Andean religion and rituals. It describes the veneration of Viracocha, the sun, and thunderbolt, as well as specific constellations that protected animals. The system of confession of sins before the "Ychuri" is detailed, where concealing faults was severely punished. The text documents sacrifices of various animals (guinea pigs, llamas) and in former times those of children, in addition to the worship of Inca mummies. It explains the twelve-month Inca calendar, describing major festivals such as Intiraymi and Capacraymi. It warns about the persistence of these idolatries under Christian forms and the use of sorcerers for divination and healing through sortileges and sacrifices. Finally, it mentions how the Incas centralized the huacas of conquered peoples in Cusco.