Sincretismo andino religioso presente en templos católicos del Centro Histórico de Quito

Abstract

The current research was carried out to demonstrate the relevance of Andean culture. Particularly, the one which is immersed in Catholic temples of the Quito´s Historic Center. It is significant to mention that, this heritage area is the largest one in Latin America. One of the most important features of these churches is the cultural syncretism immersed in the temples of each religious congregation settled in Quito, highlighting with this the richness of indigenous customs and traditions. Cultural syncretism is a mechanism that theoretically approximates the phenomenon that constitutes a culture through the memory of two or more traditions, cultures, currents of thought, languages; specifically, scientific and religious knowledge. In our case, the Andean influence with the Spanish influence: “Andean - mestizo culture” Considering the constant struggle involving in cultural syncretism phenomenon, the traditions and customs of the Andean culture have been affected by various social factors including colonization at the beginning of the 16th century and globalization during the 20th century. Thus, this research aims to make visible and transmit the Andean influence in the construction of identity in the cultural heritage of Quito. Additionally, the Andean influence will be visible through a photo report that shows the architectural beauty of Catholic temples in harmony with the elements of Andean cosmovition.