Leleque is a term primarily used in southern Chile, particularly within Mapuche communities. It refers to a type of personal or family altar, often a small structure or a designated area within a home or outdoors, where offerings and prayers are made to ancestors ( Kupalme) and other spiritual entities (Ngen). The Leleque serves as a focal point for maintaining connection and respect for deceased relatives and the spiritual realm, seeking their guidance and protection. The construction and maintenance of a Leleque are often carried out with great reverence and adherence to traditional customs. Offerings typically include food, beverages, and other items of significance. The Leleque plays a crucial role in preserving Mapuche cultural and spiritual traditions. It represents a physical manifestation of the ongoing relationship between the living and the dead, emphasizing the importance of ancestral wisdom and continuity within the family and community.
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