Santeria

Exploring the Culture of Little Havana

A Learning Community Project (School of Education, the College of Arts and Science and Eaton Residential College, University of Miami)


	Santeria


	Santeria is syncretic religon that combines elements of African and Catholic beliefs. Brought with slaves from the West Coast of Africa, this belief system is still widely practiced in Cuba and among select groups in Miami. Botanica shops cater to a variety of individuals who practice this traditional religion.




		Botanica Mistica is one of several botanicas located on Eighth Street.


		Botanicas include a wide-range of religious articles and spiritual objects. At the front of the Botanica Mistica store one can leave a monetary offering to St. Lazarus the patron saint of the poor and disposessed..



	Oils with mystical and spirtual properties are sold in the store..



				Various oils have different properties. Illustrated above are oils which "tame bullies (Amansa Guapo)," "break up battles (Rompe Batalla)," and which honor the Virgin Mary (Perfume Caridad del Cobre).


	Click on the title below for an "Introduction to Santeria" (essay by Chris Leonidas). Click on the title below to learn about "Santeria and South Florida" (essay by Chris Leonidas).

		Santería Links *Orisha Net* http://www.seanet.com/Users/efunmoyiwa/ochan et.html *African Religion (Syncretism)* http://www.ncf.carleton.ca/freenet/rootdir/menus/ sigs/religion/pagan/faqs/voodoo *Yo Soy Hechicero/I am a Sorcerer* http://www.hechicero.com/soyhechicero.html