The vast and diverse Culture of Bolivia makes it an important country in the world. This land locked country is surrounded by Brazil in the north eastern part, Peru in the northwest, Chile in the south western part and in the south you can find the countries of Argentina and Paraguay. The Culture of Bolivia imbibed much of the Spanish traditions and cultures. This country boasts of its varied and rich cultural heritage.
Culturally, you can divide Bolivia in to three distinct periods of Pre Columbian, republican and colonial. The pre Columbian culture put forth various stone monuments, archeological ruins, weavings, gold and silver items, ceramics and others. The colonial culture boasts of the works of the goldsmiths, stone cutters, wood carvers, silversmiths and baroque religious music.
Bolivia is a multi ethnic country that comprises large number of ethnic groups. The Quechua forms about 30% of the population. 30% of the population is the mestizo, Aymara comprises 25% and 15% of the population are the white people. Bolivia is a predominantly a Roman Catholic country and constitutes 95% of the population. 5% of the population is the Protestant group.
People of Bolivia speak Spanish as their official language. Other than Spanish, there are about 39 other languages used in this country. Among other largely spoken languages in Bolivia include Aymara, Chiquitano, Guyara, Chiriguano and many others.
Festivals form an important aspect of the Bolivia Culture. The carnival of Oruro that highlights the devil dance is the major event of Bolivia. Other than this carnival, the people also enjoy various folk lore events and festivals. Dance and music form the major element of the carnivals and the festivals of Bolivia.
The folk music of Bolivia is also an integral part of the culture of the country. The music also has a great Spanish influence. The tunes are mellifluous and distinctive of the country. The musical instruments that are commonly used are sicu, pinkillo, skin drums, quena, copper bells, bronze gongs, tarka and others.
The Cuisine of Bolivia also reflects the Culture of Bolivia. Some of the distinguished Bolivian delicacies include Charque Kan, Silpancho, choripan, saltena, Salchipapa, Anticucho, Cunape, Empanada and many others.
To talk about the Culture of Bolivia, mention must be made of the various etiquettes and protocols maintained in the country. To greet a person, handshake is the most common form of doing it. Gifting people with various souvenirs are common. Punctuality is expected from the people. There are various business protocols as well which must be kept in mind during your trip to Bolivia.
Authentic online information on Culture of Bolivia offered at travel.mapsofworld. Feel free to browse through the sites.
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