The Icemen of Chimborazo

Duration: 26

Year Published: 1980

Creator: G. Guayasamin

Format: 16mm

Color: Color

Sound: sound

Description: For centuries and before the arrival of the Spaniards, the Indians of Chimborazo had the cultural tradition of extracting the sacred ice from the mountains for their Shamanicas rituals. This documentary examines the social conditions of this indigenous Ecuadoran community. Because the land does not provide enough food for the people, the Indians have to sell the ice they extract from the mountains. What was once a religious custom is now a commercial venture. The ice, taken from the highest site of the world, is sold for refreshment to the fairs of Riobamba and Guaranda.