CULTURE OF BOLIVIA
Bolivia is the reflection of a past that is rich in rituals, cultures, traditions. All these brought together in a diverse geographical space, a space in which day by day, in spite of everything, a vibrant culture can be perceived. To know her not only implies traveling across her isolated places, her cities and small towns; to know her really means to know what her people do, what they think, what they feel and why they do so. Below you can read more about the culture of Bolivia.
Culture and traditions of Bolivia
RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS
Festivals in Bolivia are generally pagan and are expressed by means of rituals and dances, these are motivated by the Faith/Belief that any one of the desires of prosperity can be granted. According to a religious Cosmo Vision, pre-Hispanic cultures are revealed through their deities and gods; one of the oldest being the Pachamama, to whom tribute is given by means of the ch’alla.
Religious syncretism is represented by the union of these practices, with the catholic religion and the patron saints. Each village has a date set aside to celebrate their Saint also known as “Chicus Mass”. After the mass, the parishioners go out in a procession. With the Passing of time many changes have occurred. For example: the Oruro Carnival now opens with a “Folkloric Festival .” Spectators enjoy a colorful parade of folkloric dances in devotion to the Socavon Virgin. Over the years dances styles change and the costumes are modified.
Festivals in the east of Bolivia have more passive processions such as long walks. In the Chaco area, the festivals that take place are not accompanied by alcoholic beverages, a procession is carried out and regional products are sold, this practice is different from all the other festivals in Bolivia.
BOLIVIAN FOOD
The variety and flavors of Bolivian cuisine are directly related to its varied geography and climate. From north to south, from east to west, each city, each village has its unmistakable flavor. Cochabamba, a district unlike others, is a city is characterized by its sophisticated Bolivian gastronomy. It succeeds in uniting and combining aromas, flavors and sensations guaranteed to tickle the palate.
TRADITIONAL DANCES IN BOLIVIA
