Culture of Ecuador: Difference between revisions

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The majority of the [[Ecuador|Ecuadorian]] population is [[mestizo]], a mixture of both [[Europe]]an and [[Amerindian]] ancestry, and much like their ancestry, the national culture is also a blend of these two sources, along with influences from [[slavery|slave]]s from [[Africa]]. 95% of Ecuadorians are [[Roman Catholic]], although their Christian beliefs are mixed with ancient indigenous customs.

{{Refimprove|date = October 2011}}

{{Culture of Ecuador}}

[[Ecuador]] is a multicultural and multiethnic nation, with the majority of its population is descended from a mixture of both European and [[Amerindian]] ancestry. The other 10% of Ecuador's population originate east of the [[Atlantic Ocean]], predominantly from Spain, Italy, Lebanon, France and Germany. Around the Esmeraldas and Chota regions, the African influence would be strong among the small population of [[Afro-Ecuadorian]]s that account for no more than 10%. Close to 80% of Ecuadorians are [[Roman Catholic]], although the indigenous population blend Christian beliefs with ancient indigenous customs. The racial makeup of Ecuador is 70% mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white), 7% Amerindian, 12% White, and 11% Black.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://www.commisceo-global.com/country-guides/ecuador-guide|title=Ecuador - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette|website=Commisceo-global.com|language=en-gb|access-date=2017-05-03}}</ref>

Ecuador can be split up into three parts,four geographically distinct areas; the ''Costa'' ([[coast]]), the ''Sierra'' ([[MountainHighland (landform)|Highlandshighlands]]) and, ''El Oriente'' (the east; which includes the Amazonic region). Theand the [[Galápagos Islands|Galapagos]] islands, or ''Archipiélago de [[Christopher Columbus|Colón]]'' also belong to Ecuador.

There is tension and general dislike between the residents of the highlands [[Quito]] and the coast [[Guayaquil]] the two largest cities of the country. [[Centralism]] in these two cities, also creates animus from neighboring provinces. The at times extreme cultural differences between the Coast and the Mountainous Regions can be traced back to pre-hispanic times as the Sierra had a strong Incan presence whereas the Coast was sparsely populated by non-Incan populations such as the Valdivia, Moche, etc. Post colonization the regionalism was accentuated and perpetuated, with the Coast having more Pan-European and African influences and the Sierra having strictly Indigenous influences.<ref name=":1">{{cite web|url=https://revistarupturas.com/los-indios-deberian-quedarse-en-el-paramo/|title=¿Los indios deberían quedarse en el páramo?|website=revistarupturas.com/language=sp-gb|access-date=2017-05-03}}</ref> The animosity between the two regions has effectively bifurcated the country into two distinct ethnic consciousness and national identities. The enmity between the regions has often detained national economic progress as development in one region or the other is viewed with chagrin.

There is tension and dislike between the residents of [[Quito]] and [[Guayaquil]]. Additionally, there is [[centralism]] in these two cities, so people from other provinces also tend to dislike its residents. Furthermore, due to the at times extreme cultural difference between the Coast and the Sierra, there is a general dislike between those two regions that traces back to prehispanic times.

==History==

''El Oriente'' is characterised by [[rainforest]], the ''sierra'' by the [[snow]]-capped [[Andes]], and the ''costa'' by lowlands that are highly fertile and used for [[agriculture]], and for its beaches.

{{Off topic|date=January 2011}}

== Ecuador History==

{{Main article|History of Ecuador}}

The country was rich in history even before the arrival of the Inca. Ecuador was inhabited with numerous civilizations which constructed the ethnic cultural background of Ecuador years before the Incan empire. [http://www.exploringecuador.com/museum_bce/aborigen.htm] Many civilization rose throughout Ecuador, such as the Chorre, and the [[Valdivia Culture|Valdivia]] which span its existence before any civilization in the Americas. The most notable groups that existed in Ecuador, before, and during the Incan conquest were the [[Quitus]] (near present day [[Quito]]), the [[Cañaris|Cañari]] (in present day [[Cuenca]]), and the La Vegas Culture (near Guayaquil). Each civilization developed its own distinguished architecture, pottery, and religious beliefs, while others are under a disputed system of writing by archaeologist, an achievement the Incan did not achieve. After years of fierce resistance the Cañari fell to the Incan expansion, and were assimilated loosely into the Incan empire. The Inca were an advanced society. They originated in [[Peru]], and established a great empire in one century. It dominated Peru and extended as far as [[Bolivia]] and central [[Chile]]. To communicate they made stone-[[highways]] thousands and sent messengers along them. These messengers passed each other records of the empire's status, which are disputed to have been coded in system of knots along a rope. Remarkably, the Canari, Quitus, and Caras were able to hold back Tupac-Yupanqui for years, though they proved less successful against his son, Huayna Capac. After conquering [[Ecuador]], Huayna Capac the of the Inca Empire indoctrinated the tribes to Quechua, the language of the Incas, which is still widely spoken in Ecuador. The Cañaris were the strongest, and fierce group in Ecuador to fall, after their collapse, and assimulation, conquest of the north became easier.

[[File:Quito-San Diego-01.jpg|thumb|right|The Spanish Historical Center in [[Quito]], Ecuador]]

GOD WAS HERE!

[[Ecuador]] was inhabited with numerous civilizations which constructed the ethnic cultural background of Ecuador years before the [[Inca Empire]].[http://www.exploringecuador.com/museum_bce/aborigen.htm] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070526064032/http://www.exploringecuador.com/museum_bce/aborigen.htm |date=2007-05-26 }} Many civilizations rose throughout Ecuador, such as the Chorre and the [[Valdivia Culture|Valdivia]], the latter of which spans its existence before any civilization in the Americas. The most notable groups that existed in Ecuador before, and during the Inca conquest were the [[Quitus]] (near present-day [[Quito]]), the [[Cañari]] (in present-day [[Cuenca, Ecuador|Cuenca]]), and the Las Vegas Culture (near [[Guayaquil]]). Each civilization developed its own distinguished [[architecture]], [[pottery]], and [[religious beliefs]], while others developed archaeologically disputed systems of writing (an achievement the Incas did not achieve). After years of fierce resistance, the Cañari succumbed to the Inca expansion, and were assimilated loosely under the Inca Empire. The [[Inca people|Inca]] were an advanced society which originated in [[Peru]], and established a great empire within one century. It dominated Peru and extended as far as [[Colombia]] and central [[Chile]], as well as Ecuador. To communicate with each other they developed stone-paved [[highways]] spanning thousands of miles used by messengers. These messengers passed each other records of the empire's status, which are sometimes thought to have been encoded in a system of knots called ''[[quipu]]''. Remarkably, the [[Cañari]], [[Quitus]], and [[Caras (tribe)|Caras]] were able to hold back ''Tupac-Yupanqui'' for years, though they proved less successful against his son, [[Huayna Capac]]. After conquering Ecuador, Huayna Capac imposed upon the tribes the use of the [[Quechua languages|Quechua]] (or ''Kichwa'') language, ''lingua franca'' of the Inca and still widely spoken in Ecuador. The Cañaris were the strongest, and fiercest group in Ecuador to fall, and after their collapse and subsequent assimilation, the conquest of lands north became easier.

In celebration of his victory, [[Tupac Yupanqui]] ordered a great city to be built, [[Tomebamba]], where is the present [[Cuenca, Ecuador|Cuenca]], there he built a palace called Pumapungo over the ancient Cañari town. When he died in 1526, Huayna Capac divided the empire between his two sons, [[Atahualpa]] and [[Huáscar]]. Atahualpa ruled in the north from Quito, while Huáscar ruled in the south from [[Cuzco]]. Huáscar and Atuahualpa wanted all the empire, they could not share the territory, so an internal war took place. [[Francisco Pizarro]] landed in Ecuador in 1532, accompanied by 180 fully armed men, his mission was to find gold. Several years earlier, Pizarro had made a peaceful visit to the coast, where he heard rumors in [[Colombia]] of [[El Dorado]] of inland cities which had incredible amounts of gold. This time, he intended to conquer the Incas just as [[Hernando Cortez]] did in [[Mexico]]—and he couldn't have picked a better time. Atahualpa had only recently won the war against his brother Huáscar when Pizarro arrived. Pizarro ambushed the ruler, forced him to collect an enormous ransom, and then executed him. Spanish governors ruled Ecuador for nearly 300 years, first from the viceroyalty of [[Lima]], then later from the viceroyalty of Gran [[Colombia]]. The Spanish introduced [[Roman Catholicism]], [[colonial architecture]], and the Spanish language. Independence was won in 1822, when the famed South American liberator [[Simón Bolívar]] joined [[Antonio José de Sucre|Sucre]] and defeated a Spanish army at the [[Battle of Pichincha]].

In celebration of his victory, Tupac Yupanqui ordered a great [[city]] to be built at Tomebamba, near [[Cuenca]] called Pumapungo over the ancient Cañari town. When he died in [[1526]], Huayna Capac divided the empire between his two [[sons]], Atahualpa and Huascar. Atahualpa ruled in the north from Quito, while Huascar ruled in the south from Cuzco. Huascar and Atuahualpa wanted all the empire, the could not share the territory, so an internal war took place.

[[Francisco Pizarro]] landed in Ecuador in [[1532]], accompanied by 180 fully armed men, he is mission was to find gold. Several years earlier, Pizarro had made a peaceful visit to the coast, where he heard rumors in Colombia of El Dorado of inland cities which had incredible amounts of gold. This time, he intended to conquer the Incas just as Hernando Cortez did in [[Mexico]]--and he couldn't have picked a better time. Atahualpa had only recently won the war against his brother Huascar when Pizarro arrived. Pizarro ambushed the ruler, forced him to collect an enormous ransom, and then executed him.

Spanish governors ruled Ecuador for nearly 300 years, first from the viceroyalty of Lima, then later from the viceroyalty of Gran[[Colombia]]. The Spanish introduced [[Roman Catholicism]], colonial architecture, and today's national language. Independence was won in [[1822]], when the famed South American liberator Simon Bolivar joined Sucre and defeated a Spanish army at the Battle of Pichincha.

==Regionalism==

[[Regionalism]] is the most destructive force that has continue to hit Ecuador since the rise of segregated towns. Each region is divided betweenaccording different,to andits own unique topographic geography, creating a sense of individual pride ofregional their sidepride. The most notable regional competition or confrontationfierce enmity is between ''Guayaquileños,'' Coastal Ecuadorians and ''Quiteños'', Highland Ecuadorians. This sense of regionalism has created manyincredibly barriers between peoplecountrymen. thatDue to strong regionalism, the national [[Economy of Ecuador|economy]] has alwayssuffered, hadas aeither strongregion affectand inits thepeoples country. Duehesitate to regionalismdo anything that might result in the expansion of the other's economy, sufferedeven severelyif sinceit onewould sidemean hesitatesslowing inthe expandingnational to anothereconomy. During Warwartime, regionalism iswas visiblyconsiderably lossenabated, but there are significant reports in which such boundaries ended inof individuals betraying their country, due to their emotionaldesire sense ofto seeingsee the other region lose,; anfor example, was the case of reportsallegations that someone had given information to the enemy on troops during ''Tawantinzuma''. Most of the regional fighting occour between teenagers, and college studentds

==Family==

Ecuadorians place great importance on the [[family]], both [[nuclearNuclear family|nuclear]] and [[extendedExtended family|extended]]. Unlike in much of the modern [[Western world|Westwest]], whereEcuadorians thelive [[elderly]]in aremulti-generational oftenhomes placedwith inthe careelderly facilitiesand gearedyoung towardschildren peopleliving ofunder advancedthe age,same elderlyhousehold. Ecuadorians[[Godparents]] willor often"padrinos" live withhave onean ofimportant theirrole children.in HoweverEcuador, inwhere recentthey yearsare theoften numberexpected ofto facilitiesprovide toboth carefinancial forand thepsychological elderlysupport hasto growntheir significantlygodchildren.

Families are formed in at least one of the following two ways: [[Civil Marriage]] (which is the legal form of formalizing a bond between a man and woman, which all married couples are required to undergo) and the [[Free Union]] (where a man and woman decide to form a family, without undergoing any official ceremony). The Ecuadorian Constitution accords the members of a Free Union family, the same rights and duties as any other legally constituted family.

[[Godparent]]s are also far more important in Ecuador than in the West, and they are expected to provide both financial and psychological support to their godchildren. For example, Ecuadorians with marital troubles will often ask their godparents for advice.

Families are formed in at least one of the following three ways: Civil Marriage (which is the legal form of formalising a bond between a man and a woman and which all married couples are required to undergo), the Religious Marriage (which, Ecuador being a predominantly Catholic country, usually means a marriage ceremony sanctified by the Catholic Church) and the Free Union (where a man and a woman decide to form a family without undergoing any official ceremony). The Ecuadorian Constitution accords the members of a Free Union family the same rights and duties as in any other legally constituted family.

It is important to note that thereThere are many variations in family structure, as well as in the social and cultural structure in Ecuador, depending on the socioeconomic position in which people live. Generally, the upper classes adopt more of thewhite American or white European ways of life, customs, and culture. Whereas, lower classes more widely adopt the customs, lifestyles, and culture of native peoples. This leads to great contrasts within the Ecuadorian people, effectively creating parallel societies.

==Women=Marital roles===

{{Main article|Women in Ecuador}}

[[Women]] are generally responsible for the upbringing and care of [[child]]ren in Ecuador, and traditionally, men have taken a less active role in this area, though recently this has begun to change, with many men doing housework and caring for children when women work away from home. Since [[1906]] with [[Eloy Alfaro]]'s liberal revolution, Ecuadorian women gained the right to vote and work.

[[Women]] are generally responsible for the upbringing and care of children, and of husbands in Ecuador, and traditionally, men have taken a completely inactive role in this area. This has begun to change, due to the fact that more and more women are joining the workforce, which has resulted in men doing housework and becoming involved in the care of their children. This change was greatly influenced by [[Eloy Alfaro]]'s liberal revolution in 1906, in which Ecuadorian women were granted the right to work. [[Women's suffrage]] was granted in 1929.

Girls tend to be more protected by their parents than boys, due to traditional social structures. At age 15, girls often have [[quinceañera|largetraditional parties called ''fiesta de quince años''. ''[[Quinceañera]]'' is the term used for the girl, withnot itsthe mostparty. The importantparty aspectsinvolves beingfestive food and dancingdance. This coming of age or ''[[debutante]]'' party is a tradition presentfound in most Latin American countries, andcomparable isto similarthe toAmerican tradition of [[Sweet sixteen (birthday)|sweet sixteen]] parties in the US.

This special event sometimes involves a doll being given away to show adulthood.

==Sports and Entertainment==

As with almost all of [[Latin America]], Ecuadorians are ardent ''[[soccer|fútbol]]'' fans, and the national team has shown some successes in international tournaments of the sport in the last few years - for the first time in history it won a place in the World Cup Tournament (the 2002 event hosted by Japan and South Korea). Ecuador achieved a historic feat in Germany 2006 by reaching the knock out stages for the very first time. However, they lost to England on a famous Beckham free kick that put Ecuador out of the tournament. Nevertheless, Ecuadorians are prideful of their soccer team and highly celebrate its victories regardless of how small these are.

==Television and cinema==

Alongside soccer, [[volleyball]] is also common, though it is played differently to Western volleyball. The ball is much heavier and there are only three players per team. Volleyball is mostly informally played by both young students and middle aged people alike. Their form of volleyball is called "Ecuavoli" and has more flexible rules. For example, when playing Ecuavoli, you don't have to keep your hands together or clenched.

{{Main article|Cinema of Ecuador|Television in Ecuador}}

The majority of the movies shown in [[movie theatres]] in Ecuador come from the United States and Spain. The movies are often in English, and have Spanish subtitles, but are sometimes translated for family movies.

[[Bullfighting]], a legacy of [[Spain|Spanish]] [[colonisation]], is held annually at a large festival in [[Quito]], but it's not popular nation-wide. During December, the inhabitants of [[Quito]] celebrate its Foundation Day, which includes a grand celebration lasting for days, called ''Las fiestas de Quito''. The high point of the fiestas is the ''Corrida de Toros'', in which internationally renowned bull fighters are invited to show off their prowess in the arena.

The Ecuador Film Company was founded in [[Guayaquil]] in 1924. During the early 1920s to early 1930s, Ecuador enjoyed its Cinema Golden Age era. However, the production of motion pictures declined with the coming of sound.

In athletics, [[Jefferson Pérez]] gave Ecuador its first ever Olympic gold medal in [[1996]] in speed walking.

''[[Beyond the Gates of Splendor]]'' (2002), directed by Jim Hanon, is a documentary about five missionaries killed by the [[Huaorani]] Indians in the 1950s. He recycles the story in the 2006 Hollywood production [[End of the Spear]]. Most of this film was shot in Panama.

Other forms of entertainment popular worldwide are found in Ecuador also, including [[darts]] and a variety of [[card games]] for adults and [[marbles]], [[hopscotch]] and [[skipping rope]]s are popular pastimes for children. [[Carnivals]] and [[festivals]] are also varied through the country and highly expected by the population, usually featuring many traditional games and fun. Some parts celebrate [[mask]] carnivals, while others have no official customs, yet all of them are related to a mixture of amerindian and Catholic beliefs.

''[[Entre Marx y una Mujer Desnuda]]'' (''Between Marx and a Nude Woman'', 1995), by Ecuadorian [[Camilo Luzuriaga]], provides a window into the life of young Ecuadorian leftists living in a country, plagued by the remnants of feudal systems and coups d'état. It is based on a novel by [[Jorge Enrique Adoum]].

[[Fishing]], especially for the enormous ''bagre'' [[catfish]], which is found at the bottom of [[river]]s and can weigh up to 100 kg, is very popular. [[Bull shark]]s are often caught in rivers also.

Also, the majority of the movies shown in movie theatres in Ecuador come from the United States. The movies are often in English and have Spanish subtitles, but are sometimes translated for family movies.

==Cuisine==

[[File:Fanesca.jpg|thumb|200px|A bowl of ''[[fanesca]]'' served in [[Quito]], Ecuador. A traditional soup of Ecuador served around [[Easter]].]]

An Ecuadorian's day, at least as far as his or her [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] is concerned, is centred around [[lunch]], rather than dinner as in Western cultures. Sometimes it is the only main dish in their diet.

{{Main article|Ecuadorian cuisine}}

An Ecuadorian's day, at least as far as his or her [[pun|diet]] is concerned, is centered around lunch, rather than dinner.

There is no one food that is especially Ecuadorian, as cuisine varies from region, topeople, region of theand countrycultures. For example, ''costeñosCosteños'' (people from the coast) prefer [[fish]], [[beef]], [[beans]], [[rice]], and [[Plantain (cooking)|plantains]] (unripened [[banana]] like fruits), while ''serranosSerranos'' from the mountainous regions prefer [[meatpork]], [[ricechicken]]s, and[[corn]], [[potatoes]], and white [[hominy]] mote.

Some general examples of Ecuadorian cuisine in general include ''[[patacones]]'', (unripe [[plantainPlantain (cooking)|plantains]]s fried in [[Cooking oil|oil]], mashed up and, then refried), ''[[llapingachos]]'', (a sortpan ofseared [[potato]] tortillasball), and ''[[seco de chivo]]'', (a type of [[stew]] made from [[goat]].), More regionalized examples includeand ''[[cevichefanesca]]s'' from(a thetype Coast,of whichsoup are differentmade from other[[bean]]s, ceviches[[lentil]]s, and [[maize|corn]]), traditionally is served unprepared,on as[[Easter]]. wellMore asregionalized almidonexamples breads,include plantains''[[ceviche]]'' servedfrom withthe crushed peanuts orcoast, [[salprietachurrasco]], and ''[[encebollado]]'', the most popular dish inon the Coast, that contains a marinade with large chunks of [[fish]], [[onions]] and various regional seasoningscoast.

One food Ecuador has given the world is [[beef jerky]], the name of which comes from a [[Quechua]] word, ''charqui''.

==Language==

{{Main article|Languages of Ecuador}}

Most Ecuadorians speak [[Spanish language|Spanish]], though many speak [[Amerindian]] languages such as [[Kichwa]], the Ecuadorian dialect of [[Quechua]]. Other Amerindian languages spoken in Ecuador include [[Awapit]] (spoken by the [[Awá]]), [[A'ingae]] (spoken by the [[Cofan]]), [[Shuar Chicham]] (spoken by the [[Shuar]]), [[Achuar-Shiwiar]] (spoken by the [[Achuar]] and the [[Shiwiar]]), [[Cha'palaachi]] (spoken by the [[Chachi]]), [[Tsa'fiki]] (spoken by the [[Tsa'chila]]), [[Paicoca]] (spoken by the [[Siona]] and [[Secoya]]) and [[Wao Tededo]] (spoken by the [[Waorani]]).

Most Ecuadorians speak Spanish, though many speak Amerindian languages such as [[Kichwa language|Kichwa]], the Ecuadorian dialect of [[Quechua languages|Quechua]]. Other Amerindian languages spoken in Ecuador include [[Awapit]] (spoken by the [[Awa-Kwaiker people|Awá]]), [[A'ingae]] (spoken by the [[Cofán people|Cofan]]), [[Shuar Chicham]] (spoken by the [[Shuar people|Shuar]]), [[Achuar-Shiwiar]] (spoken by the [[Achuar]] and the [[Shiwiar]]), [[Cha'palaachi]] (spoken by the [[Chachi people|Chachi]]), [[Tsa'fiki]] (spoken by the [[Tsáchila]]), [[Paicoca]] (spoken by the [[Siona people|Siona]] and [[Secoya people|Secoya]]),((chino)), and [[Wao Tededeo]] (spoken by the [[Waorani]]).

Though most features of Ecuadorian Spanish are those universal into the [[Spanish-speaking world]], there are several idiosyncrasies.

''Costeños'' tend to speak more quickly and louder than ''serranos''", andwith moststrong oflinguistic themsimilarities doto so[[Canarian in a very informal waySpanish]]. A common term ''costeños use to'' call eachone otheranother is ''mijo'', a [[portmanteau]]contraction of sortsthe forphrase "my son" (''mi hijo'' ("my son"). Several such terms originateare fromderived in consequence of their fastrapid speech, and they havealso intrincateemploy languageintricate linguistic humor and jokes, that are difficult to translate or even understand in the other regions. AlsoFurthermore, each coaprovinceprovince has a different variety of accent, with different specific terms influenced by the different termsracial and ethnic groups that immigrated and settled the areas.

''Serranos'' usually speak softly, and verywith respectfullyless speed. Traditionally theyThey are traditionally seen as more conservative, and use a number of Kichwa-originatedderived terms in their everyday speech, which is often puzzling to other regions. A widely known example is the word ''guaguawawa'', which means ''"child''" in Kichwa. Their speech comesis influenced fromby their [[Incan]] amerindian[[Amerindian]] roots, and can be seen as a variationvariant of other [[Andean]] accents. However two main accents are noticed in the Andean region, the north and the austral accent. More variations of the austral accent are found in southern regions.

[[Whistling]], [[yelling]], or [[yawnyawning]]ing to get someone's attention is considered rude, yet is practiced informally doneand mostly by lower classes.

==Art and Literature==

{{further|Ecuadorian painters}}

[[File:Otavalo Artisan Market - Andes Mountains - South America - photograph 007.JPG|thumb|right|Hand painted crafts at the Otavalo Artisan Market]]

===Indigenous art of Tigua===

* List of Master [[Ecuadorian painters]]

The [[Quechua people|Kichwa]] people of Tigua, located in the central [[Geography of Ecuador#The Sierra|Sierra]] region, are world-renowned for their traditional paintings on sheepskin canvases.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.adventure-life.com/articles/ecuadorian-artists-39|title=Pintores de Tigua: Learn more about the Indigenous Artists of Ecuador|website=Adventure-life.com|access-date=16 October 2017}}</ref> Historically, the Tigua people have been known for painting highly decorative masks and drums; painting on flat surfaces is somewhat of a modern occurrence. Today, Tigua paintings can be found for sale all over Ecuador, particularly in touristic areas.

Tigua artists are celebrated for their use of vibrant colors and simplistic themes. Most paintings depict scenes of pastoral life, religious ceremonies, and festivals. The volcano [[Cotopaxi]] is commonly depicted in the landscape of many paintings, as it holds particular cultural significance in the region.

[[Graffiti]] is integral to the [[urban culture]] of [[Quito]]. Nearly every wall of the city was covered in it, leading to the rise of the saying "No wall is blank in Quito". However, this has reduced giving the city a much cleaner look, and reducing the gangs in Quito. Graffiti has spread to other provinces, and is usually [[art]]istic or [[politics|political]], and often [[poetry|poetic]].

==Literature==

[[Music]] is very important in Ecuador, with differences between Coast and Highlands. Generally, [[pan pipes]], [[flute]]s of [[bamboo]], [[violin]]s, [[drum]]s and [[charango]]s all played often, but with different purposes. For instance, in the ''Sierra'' popular tunes played at [[fiesta]]s include "Rosa Maria" and "El [[Condor]] Pasa", with ''sanjuanito'' being an easily recognizable genre. In the ''Costa'', the instruments are played mostly for [[cumbia]], [[Salsa music|salsa]], and [[pasillo]]s. Costeños have two kinds of purposes for music, the rhythm-filled one which is played in most places, be it in public like in the bus or in parties, and the slow, moarnful pasillos and ''rocolas'', which are exclusive to old bars. The slow tunes are humoristically known as ''cortavenísticos'' ("vein-cutting") because of their overall sadness.

{{Main|Ecuadorian literature}}

{{See also|LGBT literature in Ecuador}}

[[File:Jmontalvo.jpg|thumb|right|150px|[[Juan Montalvo]]]]

[[San Juan de Ambato]], a city in central Ecuador, is known as the "City of the three Juanes", with [[Juan Montalvo]] (a novelist and essayist), [[Juan León Mera]] (author of the words to Ecuador's [[national anthem]], and "[[Salve, Oh Patria]]"), and [[Juan Benigno Vela]] (another novelist and essayist) all sharing it as a place of birth. Other important writers include [[Eugenio Espejo]], from colonial Quito, whose works inspired the fight for freedom from Spain in Ecuador and touched a number of topics, novelist and poet [[Horacio Hidrovo Velásquez]], from early century's [[Manabí (tribe)|Manabí]], whose works have inspired [[films]].

==Music==

[[San Juan de Ambato|Ambato]], a city in central Ecuador, is known as the "City of the three Juanes", with [[Juan Montalvo]] (a [[novel]]ist and [[essay]]ist), [[Juan León Mera]] (author of the words to Ecuador's [[national anthem]], "[[Salve, Oh Patria]]") and [[Juan Benigo Vela]] (another novelist and essayist) all sharing it as a place of birth. Other important writers include [[Eugenio Espejo]], from colonial [[Quito]], whose works inspired the fight for freedom from Spain in Ecuador and touched a number of topics, and novelist and poet [[Horacio Hidrovo Velásquez]], from early century's [[Manabí]], whose works have inspired [[films]].

=={{Main article|Music andof Races ==Ecuador}}

[[File:Julio jaramillo laurido2.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[Julio Jaramillo]] is an icon of music.]]

The music of Ecuador has a long history. [[Pasillo]] is a genre domestic to Ecuador and is regarded as the "national genre." Through the years, many cultures have brought their influences together to create new types of music. There are also different kinds of traditional music like albazo, pasacalle, fox incaico, tonada, diablada pillareña, capishca, [[Bomba (Ecuador)|Bomba]] (highly established in afro-Ecuadorian society in cities such as [[Esmeraldas, Ecuador|Esmeraldas]]), and so on.

[[Tecnocumbia]] and Rockola are clear examples of the influence of foreign cultures. One of the most indigenous and traditional forms of dancing in Ecuador is [[Sanjuanito]]. It's originally from northern Ecuador ([[Otavalo people|Otavalo]]-Imbabura). Sanjuanito is a danceable music used in the festivities of the mestizo and indigenous cultures. According to the Ecuadorian musicologist Segundo Luis Moreno, Sanjuanito was danced by indigenous people during San Juan Bautista's birthday. This important date was established by the Spaniards on June 24, coincidentally the same date when indigenous people celebrated their rituals of [[Inti Raymi]].[[File:Ecuadorian dress, Carnival del Pueblo 2010, London.jpg|thumb|right|A woman in Ecuadorian dress participating in the 2010 Carnaval del Pueblo.]]

The [[Panama hat]] is of Ecuadorian origin, and is known there as "''Sombrero de paja toquilla''", or a ''Jipijapa''. It is made principally in [[Montecristi, Ecuador|Montecristi]], in the province of [[Manabí Province|Manabí]] and in the province of [[Azuay Province|Azuay]]. Its manufacture (particularly that of the ''Montecristi superfino'') is considered a great craft. In [[Cuenca, Ecuador|Cuenca]] an important Panama hat industry exists.

[[File:Otavalo Artisan Market - Andes Mountains - South America - photograph 075.JPG|thumb|right|Traditional Handmade hats for sale at the [[Otavalo (city)|Otavalo]] Artisan Market in the [[Andes]] Mountains of Ecuador]]

In addition to the numerous native [[cultures]], Ecuador is home to a Mestizo culture, and a sizable Afro-Ecuadorian culture (approximately a half-million), "In the mid-16th century, at least two slave ships from Panama bound for Peru wrecked on the shores of what is now Esmeraldas province. The African slaves established a maroon society (freed slaves), and maintained autonomy during much of the colonial era". [http://www.migrationinformation.org/Profiles/display.cfm?ID=575] Today's Afro-Ecuadorians are famous for their marimba music and dance [festivals]]. Long before the Spanish conquest, and even much before the [[Inca]] civilization, the diverse native cultures of the region had rich musical traditions. Ancient flutes, trumpets, drums, and other musical artifacts have been found in tombs. Music was obviously important in the human and supernatural worlds of ancient Andean people.

[[File:Otavalo Artisan Market - Andes Mountains - South America - photograph 033.JPG|thumb|right|Traditional [[Alpaca]] clothing at the Otavalo Artisan Market]]

With the coming of the [[Spain|Spanish]] conquerors in the 16th century, accompanied by Catholic missionaries and African slaves, additional musical languages were introduced. Today, three principal racial and cultural strains - Indigenous, Spanish, and African - have evolved into distinctive musical styles. El Pasillo is slow, sad music that is played mainly with the guitar and rondin, a flute-like instrument consisting of several pipes. The El Pasacalle type of music has an upbeat rhythym and is excellent for dancing. El Yarabi is the most popular of the music from the Andes. It is very sentimental and great for listening. {{who}}

[[File:Otavalo Artisan Market - Andes Mountains - South America - photograph 035.JPG|thumb|right|Alpaca Scarf´s at the Otavalo Artisan Market.]]

==Sports==

{{Main article|Sport in Ecuador}}

[[Association football|Football]] is the most popular sport in Ecuador. Some of the most noteworthy accomplishments of [[Ecuadorian Football Federation|Ecuadorian football]] teams are those of [[Barcelona SC]], having accumulated a total of 16 [[Ecuadorian Serie A|domestic titles]], and of [[Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito|LDU Quito]] having both won the [[2008 Copa Libertadores|Copa Libertadores]] and placed second in the [[2008 FIFA Club World Cup|FIFA Club World Cup]] in 2008; all are feats that are currently unmatched by other teams in Ecuador.

Information on all other Ecuadorian sports related articles are below:

* [[Football in Ecuador]]

* [[Ecuador national football team]]

* [[Ecuador women's national football team]]

* [[Ecuador national under-20 football team]]

* [[Ecuador national baseball team]]

* Ecuadorian volleyball ([[Ecua-volley]])

==External Links==

* Ecuador people and culture [http://www.ecuadorexplorer.com/html/people_and_culture.html]

* Hip ECUADOR [http://www.hipecuador.com/html/ecuador/ecuador_culture.htm]

* Ecuador [http://www.vivecuador.com/html2/eng/culture.htm]

==See also==

* [[Latin American culture]]

* [[Hispanic culture]]

* [[Music of Ecuador]]

* [[Religion in Ecuador]]

==References==

{{Reflist}}

== Further reading ==

{{Latin America topic|Culture of|Latin American culture}}

* [[Abdón Ubidia|Ubidia, Abdón]]. ''CUENTOS, LEYENDAS, MITOS Y CASOS DEL ECUADOR''. 2da. Edición. Libresa, 1993. pp. 129-131. {{ISBN|9789978492239}}.

* {{Cite book |title=La dama tapada: antología del cuento popular ecuatoriano |date=1999 |___location=Barcelona |publisher=Azul |editor=Abdón Ubidia |lang=ES}}

==External links==

* [http://www.ecuadorexplorer.com/html/people_and_culture.html Ecuador people and culture]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070928075438/http://www.hipecuador.com/html/ecuador/ecuador_culture.htm Hip ECUADOR]

* [https://archive.today/20030417153110/http://www.vivecuador.com/html2/eng/culture.htm Ecuador]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120209143817/http://www.arqueo-ecuatoriana.ec/ Archaeology of Ecuador]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100103060508/http://www.museos-ecuador.com.ec/ Museum and Virtual Library (Museums of Central Bank of Ecuador) English]

* [https://www.ecuadorianliterature.com Ecuadorian Literature.com]

[[Category:Ecuadorian culture| ]]

* {{cite web| title=Category: Quechua Language Writers| url=https://www.ecuadorianliterature.com/category/quechua-language-writers/ |publisher=Ecuadorian Literature.com}}

{{Ecuador topics}}

{{Latin America topic|Culture of|Latin American culture}}

[[es{{DEFAULTSORT:CulturaCulture deOf Ecuador]]}}

[[frCategory:Culture deof Ecuador| l'Équateur]]

[[pt:Cultura do Equador]]