Prazas Courses

Prazas are an important part of the traditional culture of many rural communities in Ecuador. Literally meaning “little squares” or “courtyards”, prazas are typically an open space or patio located in the center of a large community and used for social gatherings and celebratory events. The praza serves as a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily routines and is a place for people to come together to celebrate, discuss local issues and unwind after a hard day’s work. The most iconic praza in Ecuador can be found in Otavalo, where a large plaza is traditionally used for the region’s weekly market. Prazas often act as sites of symbolic meaning, where important moments of local history have been celebrated and remembered. They can be decorated with flags, banners and statues and may be the location of a triumphal arch or a symbolic tree. Music is often offered to honor local customs and culture, with a range of traditional instruments commonly found in these public spaces. In more recent years, prazas have taken on a new sense of purpose, with many now hosting a variety of commercial activities such as tourism events and workshops. However, for most rural communities in Ecuador, the praza still remains a space for gathering and remembrance, where the true spirit of the local culture can be celebrated.