Poncho: The myriad forms of the 'poncho' signify indigenous identity by differentiating communities on the basis of design and color. The poncho was also adopted by Spanish conquistadors and used as part of their military strategies.

Native and invasive species in the Andes: Llamas and guinea pigs are common in the Andes. Guinea pig dishes are typical of Andean cuisine. Ecuador is also home to animals introduced by the Spanish conquistadors such as rabbits, cows, pigs, sheep, and bulls.

Píllaro Diablada: There are several theories about the origins of the indigenous festival of Píllaro Diablada. According to one theory, it began during the Spanish colonial period, influenced by Catholic culture and the concepts of heaven and hell. At the time, indigenous people were granted one day off a year, on which they dressed up as demons to protest against the oppression and abuse of the Spanish conquistadors and the church.

Festivals in the Andes: Since the valleys of the Andes are home to many indigenous communities, festivals are held throughout the year. At their festivals, you can see a variety of masks and costumes worn by the indigenous people.

The meaning of the Aya huma mask: This mask is painted on both the front and back. The two noses on the mask represent the vernal and autumnal equinoxes, the two ears signify the summer solstice and winter solstice, and the twelve horns symbolize the twelve phases of the moon, the twelve months of the year, and the twelve apostles of the Bible.


Now let's go downstairs.