kolovratka

The Kolovratka, also known as the Slavic Sun Wheel or simply Kolovrat, is a symbol with roots in Slavic paganism. It typically depicts a circular disc with a cross inscribed within it, often with the arms of the cross bent or curved, resembling a swastika or a pinwheel. The name "Kolovrat" is derived from the Slavic words "kolo" meaning circle or wheel, and "vrat" meaning to turn or spin.

Its primary interpretation is as a symbol of the sun, its cyclical nature, and its life-giving power. The circular form represents eternity and the ongoing cycle of life, death, and rebirth, while the spinning arms suggest movement and the sun's journey across the sky. It has been associated with various Slavic deities, particularly those connected to the sun, fire, and fertility.

The Kolovrat enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly among nationalist and neo-pagan movements in Slavic countries. It is often seen as a symbol of national identity and cultural heritage. However, due to its visual similarity to the swastika, a symbol heavily associated with Nazism, the Kolovrat can sometimes be misunderstood or misconstrued in contemporary contexts, though its historical and traditional meanings are distinct and predate the Nazi appropriation of the swastika. Despite this potential for confusion, it remains an important symbol for many interested in Slavic history, mythology, and spirituality.