In the northwestern corner of Ecuador, African and indigenous cultures blend harmoniously in the middle of jungle, river, and sea. The African heritage for many of Esmeraldas' residents dates back to the shipwreck off the coast of a slave ship. The legend goes like this that about two-dozen slaves made their way to land and tasted freedom. The influence of eastern African dress, music and customs are widely visible in Esmeraldas. The island of the La Tolita, Esmeraldas is one of the most visited places of Ecuador. Many people believe that La Tolita, Esmeraldas was a great factory where work was done in gold, silver and platinum.
There exists a true archaeological treasure in La Totila. One can find there Necks of vasijas, dolls and ralladores, and thousands of pieces of ceramics. In Ecuador, "the tola" means a small elevation created by the man and used for burials. Throughout the country, there have been several tolas.
In the island of the Tolita there existed near 60 tolas, but now hardly 16 are left. Due to its inaccessibility, the town of the Tolita - Gold Pampas has been exposed to poverty. To sell archaeological pieces became the only means of livelihood among the people.
Luckily the inhabitants of the town have realized that they could make more money if they left the pieces intact as it would draw a lot of tourists. The tourism sector has developed thereafter and it is slowly becoming a favorite destination of travelers from all over the world.
La Tolita is located 120 kilometers to the north of Emerald. It is proud of the Beach of Santigüero, a place surrounded by forest and palm. The ground has ceramics pieces all over, and little by little it is discovered the mystery and the dimension of the historical past of this island.
La Tolita, Esmeraldas is almost an unexplored tourist destination. The travelers have started to pour in off recently. Their treasures attract thousands but truly speaking everyone is charmed by the warmth and the friendliness of the inhabitants.
You are sure to enjoy your travel in La Tolita, Esmeraldas.
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