Cultures of the Ecuador

​Cultures of the Ecuador

​By: Jorge Ruiz

They occupied the south-central part of the current province of Manabí. They were recognized for their sailing skills, as they also developed techniques in large rafts with sails and multiple rudders.

This allowed for long-distance maritime exchange, establishing important ports such as Puerto Lopez, Manta, or Jaramijó in the numerous bays or inlets that made up their territory. ​

​

​Bahia culture

​

• It was an important part of the integration period and occupied a large territory that included the Bay of Caráquez, the Gulf of Guayaquil, Puná Island and the current province of El Oro.

  They were known for building large urban centers such as Camiloa, Cama, Jaramijó and Jocay (present-day Manta). They even used to travel overseas to promote trade.

​

​Manteño-Huancavilca ​

It occupied the territory of the current provinces of Cañar and Azuay. There is even evidence of settlements south of Chimborazo, north of Loja and in the interior of El Oro.

This group was recognized for its remarkable warlike power and bravery. They also enjoyed a privileged position in the service of the temples and as soldiers of the southern troops.​

​

​The Cañari culture

It was recognized as an Amazonian society and its location was around the Nápo River and its tributaries. Their settlement covered the current provinces of Sucumbíos, Orellana, Pastáza and Nápo. 

They are identified with the Omaguas, who were known as the last representatives of this people. In their handicrafts were very common ceramic vessels and particular funerary urns with anthropomorphic representations. ​

​

​Napo Culture

​