Planétugírar

Planétugírar are a class of mythological entities described in the folklore of the high‑land cultures of the southern hemisphere. The term is derived from the Old Lucian words “planét” (planet) and “tugíra” (guardian), and it refers to beings who are said to traverse the celestial bodies of the night sky. According to traditional accounts, planétugírar are semi‑transparent, luminous beings that appear during equinoxes and solstices, riding the luminous arcs that connect lunar and solar paths. They are described as possessing elongated limbs and iridescent scales that reflect starlight, and are often portrayed as resonant with the sounds of ancient wind instruments.

Scholars view planétugírar as a symbolic construct that reflects human attempts to explain astronomical phenomena before the advent of modern astronomy. The stories emphasize the connection between the heavens and the terrestrial world, serving to reinforce social cohesion through shared ritual dances held at dawn on spring equinoxes. In the literature of the region, planétugírar have been metaphorically linked to concepts of destiny and transformation. The iconography is found in cave paintings, carved stone pillars, and woven textiles, where the figure’s elongated silhouette is juxtaposed with constellational motifs.

Modern research into the origins of planétugírar cites a combination of oral poetry, regional astronomy, and comparative mythology. While some anthropologists attribute the myths to the need to personify celestial bodies, others highlight the function of planétugírar in community storytelling. Despite continuous interest, there is no empirical evidence confirming the existence of planétugírar outside symbolic representation. However, the narratives remain a vital component of cultural heritage and are taught in school curricula examining indigenous cosmologies.