Things You Should Know About the Garinagu People of Puerto Cortes

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Categorized | Things to Do

Things You Should Know About the Garinagu People of Puerto Cortes

Posted on 24 August 2009

If there are people you must meet while in Puerto Cortes, then they are the Garinagus. You will be treated to an interesting glimpse into the rich culture of a robust people in their native land. You can find Garinagu villages in Baja Mar and Masca. There are Garinagu communities in cities like Los Angeles, Miami and New York. Still, the opportunity to interact and to participate in a unique culture in the land where it came from is unparalleled. With that said, here are a few things that you must keep in mind when in Garinagu villages.

Family Structure

The Garinagu society is said to be a matriarchal one where the women rule the household while the men provide for the family’s subsistence. It must be emphasized, however, that the women also play a role in earning a living albeit in a smaller way. As such, you must respect both men and women in Garinagu villages. In some ways, this is in contrast with the mainly macho culture of the Hondurans especially in cities like Puerto Cortes.

Language

In recognition of the importance of Garinagu culture for humanity, UNESCO proclaimed the dance, music and language of its people as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The aim was to assist in the preservation of the Garinagu culture as expressed through oral and body language, which remains to be one of the most unique on Earth. Of course, you will need a translator as the Garinagu of Puerto Cortes only speaks Spanish and a native dialect called Igñeri. Always try to be polite as you would in any situation and you will be treated with respect, too.

Religion

You must also show respect for the unique mix of religion that the Garinagu practice. Said religion is characterized by a shaman – known as a buyei - leading all traditional practices, which include the Dugu (a dance ritual for the dead) and the belief in the Gubida (spiritual possession through trance).

Food

If you are in a Garinagu village, you must taste the savory of unusual food. You can sink your teeth into ereba (cassava bread), which is eaten with either fish or pounded plantains or gravy. If you are more adventurous, bundiga, mazapan and bimacacule are on the menu, too.

Dance and Music

What you should not miss, too, is the distinctive and popular dance form of the Garinagu, which is called the punta. You perform this dance by swaying your hips from right to left in a circular motion to the beat of the drums although other instruments are also added. There are other dance and music forms of the Garinagu people. No matter the dance and music, however, you will find that the Garinagu people are truly eloquent with their bodies, their lyrics and their music.

Meeting Garinagu people during your visit to Puerto Cortes is worth your time. You will be provided with the great opportunity to interact with friendly people whose culture have been greatly influenced by many cultures and that, in turn, continue to influence modern cultures.

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