The awelo (derived from
Spanish ''abuelo'', meaning "grandfather") is the religious supernatural tribal protector that embodies the essence of the
Tigua Indians. The awelo is similar to the
kachinas found in other
Puebloan societies. The awelo monitors the conduct of tribal members by punishing those who behave incorrectly. The awelo is believed to live near
Cerro Alto Mountain. The awelo is represented by grandfather and grandmother buffalo masks, which are fed with smoke.
See also
*
Grandpa Wenteyao
References
* Houser, Nicholas P. (1979). Tigua Pueblo. In A. Ortiz (Ed.), ''Handbook of North American Indians: Southwest'' (Vol. 9, pp. 336-342). Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution.
Pueblo culture
Tutelary deities
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