Because of its strength and size which helps in plowing the soil for a fertile land, the ox is regarded as a sign of prosperity, fortitude and hard work. It is therfore common to see a pair of ceramic oxen on top of rooftops in and around Cusco. A local legend states that the ancient god Amaru who comes in the form of a snake, emerged from the bottom of the lake and turned into a bull/ox to bring wealth and fertility.

There is also a local ceremony to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth), wherein the natives lacerate a bull and put hot peppers in its nose before letting it run free. This makes the bull run towards the sacred mountains while spilling its blood on the soil - their blood is believed to make the land fertile.