posted by Roberto at 6:16 PM
LOCATION AND BRIEF HISTORY
Salasaca is located 14 KM from Ambato, on the highway to Baños, in the Canotn of Pelileo, Province of Tungurahua. Salasaca, an indigenous community of 12,000 inhabitants.and occupis an area of 20 square kilometers. It is divided into 18 communities, all of them situated on the side of the Tungurahua volcano.
Salasaca is a place where one of the most vibrant indigenous cultures of Ecuador is to be found. The "Salasaca", who are considered mitimaes (groups or entire peoples, transferred in Inca times to other places far distant from their origin), are probably from Bolivia, which the Incas conquered, later moving the people to the foot of Teligote mountain. The language they use is Runa Shimi (Kichwa) and they are part of the Kichwa nationality.
Their main economic activities are agriculture, livestock-raising and handcrafts, which they begin learning from a very early age. One very characteristic aspect of the Salasaca is their exquisite tapestries, which are woven by hand on looms of very ancient technology. Many of the designs depict different aspects of their lives. They also weave ponchos, sweaters, bags, hats and other articles. The Salasaca are fine craftspeople, who have specialized in Andean textile art and have gained a good national and international market.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
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