The Feast of Mama Negra represents Ecuadorian cultural richness. It is a beautiful traditional celebration, but above all it is a mestizo celebration.
Although little is known about its origins, it is believed to be a colorful blend of indigenous, African and Spanish customs. Various representative elements from the Catholic Church and the military are represented, and is celebrated in Latacunga.
The beauty and many bright colors are reflected in the variety of figures, clothing, rich dance art, masks, rhythm and music. Of course, as with all Ecuadorian festivals, the large amount of food and drink must not be missed.
It is believed that the origin of the festivities dates back to the 18th century, when the Cotopaxi volcano had a great eruption. During that time, the people of Laracunga entrusted themselves to the Virgin La Merced. This was declared the patron saint.
Others believe that the origin of the fiestas dates back to the 19th century, when the country freed itself from black slavery. Whatever the origin of the celebrations, Mama Negra is nowadays one of the most popular celebrations in our country.
Interestingly, it is the only festival that takes place twice a year, on September 23 and 24 and in the first days of November.
The characters:
The Mama Negra is the main character of the fiestas. In reality, it is a white man with black painted face in typical clothes with an extremely beautiful decoration. He represents a freed black slave.
The priostes are the donors of the feasts. Usually they are rich and popular people from the community. When the parade ends, people go to the church and then to the houses of the priostes. Free food and drinks are served there.
The ashanga are supposed to represent the men of Mama Negra. They carry huge baskets with already prepared whole pigs, chickens, guinea pigs, drinks and also cigarettes on their backs. They distribute the food to the spectators.
The angel of the stars represents the archangel Gabriel. He is a handsome young man on a horse with a white tunic, which is decorated with silver and gold lace.
The captain is the main donor of the feasts. He wears an elegant uniform and has a sword in his hand.
The flag bearer wears a military uniform and distracts the spectators with the flag. In addition, one finds other characters, such as the yumbos, the tiznados, the black king and the engastadores.
Also the Doñas should not be forgotten. These are men dressed as women with long wigs, scarves in front of their faces and lots of jewelry. They distribute kisses to the male spectators, small bags of traditional pastries to the children and flowers to the rest of the people.
All this makes for an interesting, colorful and loving atmosphere with many national and international visitors.
Kommentare