The Spirit of Santería in Modern Cuba
Santería, also known as La Regla de Ocha, is a syncretic religion that originated in Cuba during the 16th-19th century. It combines West African religious customs, particularly Yoruba, with elements of Roman Catholicism. Many people associate its name with vivid rituals, holy drumming, trance-inducing dance, and offerings to the deities known as Orishas. Santería’s story explores displacement, cultural ties, and religious resilience in the face of adversity.
Santería originated with the Yoruba people of modern-day Nigeria. Long before the Atlantic slave trade, the Yoruba had established a rich theological system based on the worship of a pantheon of deities known as Orishas. These deities embodied natural forces, human emotions, and planes of existence, all with the goal of keeping their world balanced and harmonious.
Yoruba religiosity was highly organised, with ceremonies and offerings to develop and preserve the deities’ powers. Babalawos, or priests, served as middlemen between the people and the divine, performing divinations and interacting with the Orishas. However, this highly ingrained belief system will shortly suffer a terrible interruption.
Beginning in the 16th century, the transatlantic slave trade forcefully transported millions of West Africans to the Americas, uprooting them from their homes and dispersing them across vast continents. The Yoruba people were among the many ethnic groups enslaved and transported to the Caribbean, particularly to Spanish colonies such as Cuba, which was one of the last to abolish slavery.
In Cuba, the enslaved Yoruba were subjected to a rigorous, often brutal colonial system that required adherence to Roman Catholicism. Despite the difficult surroundings, captured Africans fought to keep their traditions alive. The continuity of their country customs and the new environment they confronted was critical. To maintain their spiritual identity in a harsh context, they began to integrate their religious traditions with the prevailing religion of their captors.
Santería is the result of necessity, adaptability, and cultural fusion. Enslaved Africans secretly worshipped Yoruba religion while ostensibly professing Roman Catholicism. By drawing symbolic parallels between Catholic saints and their Orishas, they established a covert, hybrid tradition in which African deities were “disguised” as Catholic saints.
For example, the Orisha Yemayá, the goddess of the ocean and maternal love, was linked to Our Lady of Regla, a devotion to the Virgin Mary who is also associated with seafarers. Similarly, the strong Shango, god of lightning and war, became associated with Saint Barbara, who was frequently represented with thunderbolts. Syncretising was not only resistant, but also extraordinarily functional, allowing African spirituality to be preserved under the careful eye of colonial authority.
Santería evolved from a survival practice into a distinct spiritual tradition. Today’s practitioners, known as Santeros or devotees, continue to honour the Orishas, who are believed to guide, heal, and protect the living. Santería retains its African roots, despite its external Catholicism.
Santería became increasingly integrated into Cuba’s cultural environment. While it began in enslaved communities, its impact grew to include Afro-Cuban freedmen, working-class whites, and even those of mixed racial heritage. Despite experiencing stigma and oppression during early nationalist movements and communist government in the 20th century, Santería discreetly thrived within close-knit communities.
The Cuban Revolution of 1959 marked a watershed moment. The new communist government, under by Fidel Castro, attempted to abolish religious rituals, viewing them as remnants of colonialism and outdated beliefs. Santería, like many other religious practices, was forced underground. Rather than shrinking, it developed underground resilience. With the end of religious oppression in the late 20th century, Santería resurfaced in Cuban society, garnering increased openness and international attention.
Santería is a communal religion that uses rituals, music, and dance to connect the physical and spiritual worlds. Each Orisha is thought to control a specific aspect of nature and human life. Devotees attempt to maintain a peaceful relationship with these great powers, frequently through rituals and offerings.
Santería practitioners consider initiation, also known as “making of a saint,” to be a pivotal point in their life. Individuals participate in this rite to pledge themselves to a certain Orisha, establishing a lifelong bond of worship and communication. The procedure is very clandestine, supervised by stringent standards, and overseen by senior practitioners, including Babalawos.
Another important ritual is divination, which is often carried out with cowrie shells or a sacred chain known as Opele to discern the Orishas’ will and guidance. Drumming in Santería ceremonies serves as a communication mechanism to summon the Orishas to participate in the rites.
Throughout the year, Santería celebrates lavish feasts called “bembés,” where the community gathers to give animal sacrifices, fruits, and other objects to the Orishas. These offerings are essential for maintaining equilibrium and guaranteeing the well-being of both devotees and the larger community.
While Santería is most firmly linked with Cuba, its practice extends well beyond the island’s shores, notably due to Cuban migration in the late 20th century. Many Afro-Caribbeans spread their religious traditions throughout the Americas, particularly in areas like Miami and New York, where huge Cuban diasporas have emerged in recent decades.
Santería has evolved globally, including in the United States. It has grown in both small, traditional communities and more formalised “churches” designed to systematise its practices. Some practitioners prioritise the cultural heritage of Santería, while others provide services like spiritual consultations or healing across borders.
Its growth beyond Cuba has resulted in new waves of misunderstanding. The religion has frequently been sensationalised because its practice of animal sacrifice and rites are portrayed as mysterious or foreign. Santería is a thriving practice that connects practitioners to ancestral and heavenly powers, providing solace and guidance.
Today, Santería is at a crossroads. It is gradually gaining visibility, both within Cuba and globally, as a result of worldwide interest in Afro-diasporic faiths and modern media portrayals. Santería’s perceived mystique has led to increased tourism and consumerism, posing a challenge to sustaining its hallowed traditions.
Despite difficulties, Santería has survived and evolved for centuries, demonstrating its resilience. After all, its fundamental foundations are based on flexibility — a spirituality that has continually maintained its essence while absorbing new influences.
Santería is a religion that emphasises resistance and resilience. It is a strong reminder of how spirituality can act as a unifying force, born out of the convergence of terrible history, cultural displacement, and survival. Santería, which originated in West Africa and now thrives in Cuba and abroad, exemplifies the resilience of cultural identity in the face of insurmountable challenges.
Santería is more than just rituals for its followers; it is a way of life that enhances the connection between humanity and the divine, as well as the past and present. This religion, which combines spirit, drumming, and prayer, continues to provide power, identity, and grace to those who practise it.
Despite challenges and transformations, Santería demonstrates the strength of faith and the life of the Afro-Cuban spiritual tradition. Every ceremony, dance, and drumbeat reflects the history, hopes, and power of people who refused to let their souls be forgotten.
Lost in Cuba: Vintage Cars, Rhythms, and Revolution
Cuba, the Caribbean’s largest island, is a mystery that combines beauty and intrigue. It’s a location where time appears to stand still one minute, with old automobiles rumbling past pastel-colored colonial buildings, and then quickly leaps forward as the island tiptoes towards modernity. This land, rich in history, culture, and hardy people, offers visitors more than just beautiful beaches; it encourages them to step into its distinct, storied past.
Early Origins: To the Heart of the Caribbean.
Long before modern-day travellers went to Cuba’s crystal-clear beaches and listened to the beautiful sounds of salsa in Havana’s bustling streets, the island was home to indigenous people, primarily the Taínos. For generations, these indigenous communities thrived on the island of Cuba, cultivating the land, practicing spirituality through complicated ceremonies, and maintaining a balanced way of life that was closely connected to nature.
Their world, however, was irreparably transformed in 1492, when Christopher Columbus, flying the Spanish flag, arrived on the island during his first voyage to the New World. Christopher Columbus reportedly characterised Cuba as “the most beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen.” That encounter laid the groundwork for Spain’s colonisation, which would permanently alter the course of the island and its people. Over time, the Spanish imported African slaves to labour on sugarcane plantations, resulting in a rich yet complex cultural fusion that can still be felt today in Cuba’s music, art, religion, and cuisine.
Havana, Where History Meets Modern Adventure
Fast forward several centuries, and Havana, Cuba’s capital city, is an absolute treasure trove for history aficionados, art lovers, and those looking for something special. Stepping into the city is like entering a time capsule, providing a unique view of Cuba’s momentous years.
Old Havana (“La Habana Vieja”), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is undoubtedly the most famous portion of the city, and it’s easy to get lost among its cobblestone alleyways, beautiful forts, and bustling plazas. Meandering through its narrow alleyways, you’ll come across old Spanish cathedrals, faded colonial homes, and, of course, the famed vintage American cars—Chevys, Buicks, and Oldsmobiles from the 1950s.
However, it is not only the building that captivates the emotions. Wandering through Havana is like returning to a golden age of music and dance. Almost every street is alive with the rhythm of “son cubano,” the pulses of salsa, and the unmistakable sound of Cuban jazz emanating from colourful bars and cafes. For a genuinely authentic experience, visit La Bodeguita del Medio or Floridita, novelist Ernest Hemingway’s old haunts, and order a mojito or a daiquiri while immersing yourself in the ambiance of bygone eras.
But Havana is also a live, breathing, and changing city. New creative vitality is pulsing beneath its old charm. You’ll come across trendy art galleries, fashionable rooftop bars, and chic native restaurants that combine worldwide flavours with Cuba’s culinary traditions. This modern, forward-thinking side of Havana is gradually transforming the city’s appearance while remaining true to its rich historical origins.
The Cuban Revolution: A Story of Resilience and Struggle
To truly appreciate Havana—or Cuba as a whole—you must go beyond the sights and sounds and delve into the island’s turbulent political history. No visit to Cuba is complete without appreciating the colossal significance of the Cuban Revolution. Political instability has affected the island’s history, particularly Fidel Castro’s ascent to power in 1959 with the fall of dictator Fulgencio Batista.
The revolution converted Cuba into a socialist state, altering its relations with the rest of the world, particularly the United States. The iconic Plaza de la Revolución is one of the most lasting emblems of this political shift. Monuments commemorating Revolutionary heroes such as José Martí, Che Guevara, and Camilo Cienfuegos tower over the expansive field, serving as compelling reminders of the values that defined the country’s present character.
While the Revolution brought about significant social improvements such as universal health care and education, Cuba also faced economic challenges, which were worsened by a decades-long US embargo. A walk through any Cuban neighbourhood reveals a complex reality: while the country has some of the top doctors and schools in the region, many people live in dilapidated structures and experience daily economic challenges. Despite its trials, one of Cuba’s greatest qualities is its people’s indomitable spirit—their tenacity, generosity, and ingenuity. Ask anyone what they find most striking about Cuba, and they will almost certainly say the same thing: the people.
Beyond Havana: Cuba’s Diverse and Stunning Landscapes
Cuba’s attractiveness is not limited to Havana’s renowned skyline. The island boasts stunning landscapes—diverse ecosystems that appeal to everyone, from beachgoers to hikers.
The Viñales Valley, located a few hours west of Havana, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful limestone hills known as mogotes that rise sharply from the earth. Viñales, known for tobacco farming, offers unique experiences such as horseback riding, panoramic views, and tours of old cigar manufacturers. You’ll encounter the rough beauty of Cuba’s countryside, which is far apart from the busy life of Havana.
Head east until you reach Trinidad, a superbly preserved colonial town that appears to have remained unchanged for the past 200 years. It’s a magnificent combination of brilliantly coloured houses, cobblestone streets, and Afro-Cuban traditions. The adjacent Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) provides insight into Cuba’s sugar trade history, while the dazzling blue waters of Playa Ancón, just outside the city, appeal for leisurely afternoons on the beach.
For those seeking adventure and lush nature, visit Cuba’s Sierra Maestra highlands, which have gorgeous trails, waterfalls, and the famous camp of Fidel and Che during their revolutionary campaign. And for beach lovers, Cuba does not disappoint. Varadero Beach, on the north coast, has endless lengths of white sand, while Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo are some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Cuban Culture: More Than Cigars and Salsa.
Ask any traveler what comes to mind when they think about Cuba, and they will most likely say cigars, salsa, and rum. While these features are important to Cuban society, the island has much more to offer in terms of art and culture.
Cuban music is probably the country’s most famous cultural export. Salsa, son cubano, mambo, and cha-cha-cha evolved from the mix of African drum beats and Spanish songs, reflecting the island’s past. Visit each town square, and you’ll see someone playing a guitar, singing soulful ballads, or starting a spontaneous rumba in the streets.
Art is another important means of expression for Cubans. From the murals showing revolutionary slogans in Havana to the colourful galleries in Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, artistic works in Cuba provide a window into the lives, frustrations, and hopes of its citizens. Renowned artists such as Wilfredo Lam have achieved international acclaim by combining Afro-Cuban religious themes with surrealism.
Of course, there’s the unmistakable link to religion. While Cuba is nominally a secular state, many Cubans practise Santeria, a distinct religion that combines African spiritual beliefs with Catholicism—a result of the country’s colonial and slave trade history. Travellers can learn about the practice by visiting local shrines, watching colourful processions, or even conversing with locals who follow the syncretic faith at rituals.
Cuba in Transition: The Road Ahead
Today, Cuba is a country in change. Since travel restrictions were lifted a few years ago, Cuba has welcomed more international tourists than ever before. While political reform has proceeded gradually, with the emergence of some private firms, Cuba continues to straddle two worlds, one steeped in the past and the other warily looking forward to the future.
Walking through Old Havana now, you can feel a palpable blend of historical romance and forward-thinking ambition. Cuba’s future remains uncertain, with reforms providing hope to many but also provoking arguments over the country’s direction.
This sense of movement, combined with Cuba’s history, music, architecture, and natural beauty, is what draws visitors to the country. It’s a country that inspires in-depth reflection and research, challenging you to go past the surface and find its complexities, contradictions, and charms. Cuba, from Havana’s bustling avenues to the tranquil, lush plains of Viñales, and from a well-aged cigar fashioned by hand to a frenetic salsa in the streets of Trinidad, remains a place both elegantly frozen in time and actively crafting its future.
So, if you want to go beyond sandy beaches and delve deeper into a country’s essence, Cuba is calling.
Daiquiris, Mojitos, and the Magic of Cuban Cocktails
When picturing a sunny, tropical afternoon, it’s difficult not to imagine oneself sitting by the beach, sand between your toes, a nice wind ruffling your hair, and a cold, delicious cocktail in your hand. For many of us, that cocktail could simply be a Daiquiri or a Mojito—two classic beverages that have become synonymous with carefree summer days and steamy evenings. Aside from their popularity, both of these Cuban-born beverages have a rich history and unique characteristics that make them eternally intriguing. So what is their story? And how did these classic cocktails spread from their Cuban origins to global fame? Let’s take a taste of history and delve into the legacy of the Daiquiri and Mojito.
The Daiquiri may appear to be a simple combination of rum, lime juice and sugar, but its origins are far more intricate than a basic formula on a bar menu. The cocktail’s name is derived from a little village called Daiquiri near Santiago, Cuba. And, like many great creations, the Daiquiri arose out of need. In the early 1900s, Jennings Cox, an American engineer, found himself hosting a gathering of his colleagues. According to the narrative, he ran out of gin, which was already the most popular liquor at the time, and had to make do with what was available locally: rum, lime, and sugar. The end result was a drink that was so vivid and vibrant that it became an instant success. Who could have predicted that a coincidental shortage would result in the birth of one of the world’s most popular cocktails?
From then, the Daiquiri made its way to the United States, where it found a particularly enthusiastic supporter in writer and bon vivant Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway, a frequent at Havana’s El Floridita bar, helped popularise a variation of the Daiquiri that bears his name: the Hemingway Special, a tart, less-sugary Daiquiri tailored to Hemingway’s diabetic dietary demands, though many just refer to it as ‘Papa’s Daiquiri’. Hemingway’s love for the drink only cemented its place in the pantheon of popular cocktails.
While the Daiquiri originated in the early twentieth century, the Mojito dates back far further, to the 16th century. According to legend, Sir Francis Drake and his men invented the Mojito when anchored near Havana and suffering from dysentery and scurvy. Locals gave a medicine comprised of sugarcane alcohol, mint leaves, lime, and cane sugar, which not only relieved the sailors’ problems but also served as the foundation for something pretty delectable. Though it’s difficult to envision pirates sipping sophisticated cocktails, this therapeutic rum treatment evolved into what we now know as the Mojito.
The Mojito, like any other drink, was not created out of need; rather, its contemporary form owes much to Cuban culture, where the cocktail was developed over centuries in Havana bars. The Mojito, like the Daiquiri, captivated notable enthusiasts, including, surprise, Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway, a cocktail connoisseur, purportedly named La Bodeguita del Medio, a small Cuban pub, as the location where he savoured “the best Mojitos.” Though he preferred the Daiquiri in general, these green, minty drinks were always within his reach.
Despite their shared roots in Cuba and rum, the main difference between a Daiquiri and a Mojito is in their supporting ingredients. Whereas the Daiquiri is light and refined, with only lime juice and sugar to create a perfectly tangy balance, the Mojito has a stronger flavour profile because to the inclusion of fresh mint leaves and sparkling water.
The Mojito’s trademark herbaceousness originates from muddled mint, which gives the beverage a refreshing and cooling effect. The drink is refreshing, herbaceous, and slightly effervescent, making it ideal for hot weather drinking. The Daiquiri, on the other hand, is tangier and more direct, with its simplicity serving as the ideal showcase for high-quality rum. If the Mojito is like rushing through a garden after a summer rainfall, the Daiquiri is like basking in the sun, a drink as elegant and timeless as a white linen suit.
As with other excellent drinks, the Daiquiri and Mojito have evolved and inspired creative people to put their own take on them. Variations on the Daiquiri have ranged from the frozen strawberry version popular at beach bars to more sophisticated versions including other types of citrus, rum strains, or even the use of bitters. The Hemingway Special featured a splash of grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur, making it suited to those who want a sharper, more complex tone.
Meanwhile, the Mojito’s versatility has resulted in seasonal and fruit versions. Strawberry mojitos, raspberry mojitos and even pineapple mojitos—it appears that each barman has their own fruity spin to lend dimension to this frothy classic. Some substitute basil or cilantro for mint, giving the cocktail a distinct herbal flavour, while others replace rum entirely with spirits such as tequila or gin for an even more refreshing twist. Sparkling variants may skip the soda water and instead include Prosecco or cava for an extra celebratory zing.
While both drinks originated as native Cuban delicacies, they have spread far beyond tropical islands and Latin American shores to become popular beverages around the world. Today, you may find a Mojito or Daiquiri on a rooftop bar in New York City or a Parisian café, just as you would on the streets of Havana. its simplicity, as well as versatility, have contributed to its everlasting appeal.
Both cocktails gained to international prominence in part due to the long-lasting influence of Cuban culture and tourism, as well as their relationship with twentieth-century luminaries such as Hemingway. Following Prohibition, American cocktails were rife with rich spirits like whisky and brandy, and Cuba’s light, citrus-laden mixes provided a pleasant contrast. Travellers, particularly in recent decades, have regularly transported Cuban cocktail culture back to their respective cities, establishing Daiquiris and Mojitos as must-try drinks around the world.
Now that we’ve thoroughly examined both drinks, if you’re still deciding between the Daiquiri and the Mojito, here’s some food—or should we say “drink”—for contemplation. The Daiquiri is ideal for those who want tarter drinks with clean lines and pure rum flavour. It’s the cocktail version of a classic, minimalist wardrobe: ageless, sophisticated, and never out of fashion.
If you want freshness and enjoy the thought of sipping something aromatic and effervescent, the Mojito may be your drink of choice. It’s like walking into a herb garden with a cool drink in hand: refreshing, bright, and oh very summery.
Finally, the Daiquiri and Mojito are more than simply cocktails; they’re cultural ambassadors, serving up a bit of Cuba in every glass. Each taste of these cocktails tells a narrative about dangerous seas and pirates, overcoming shortages in inventive ways, and being swept away to a place of white sand beaches and rhythmic island music. Whether you’re drinking a Daiquiri poolside or raising a Mojito at sunset, you’re part of a long-standing tradition of entertainment, pleasure, and a not-so-subtle dose of history.
Navigating History: Columbus and the Birth of a New Era
Few events in history have had a greater impact on the world than Christopher Columbus’ voyage across the Atlantic. Columbus’ trip, which began in 1492 under the patronage of the Spanish Crown, was more than just a voyage of discovery; it served as a catalyst for extraordinary worldwide development. The consequences of his mission have reverberated throughout history, changing the features of modern society in profound and intricate ways.
Christopher Columbus, an Italian navigator born in Genoa, had an intense curiosity about the world. During an era marked by a feverish pursuit of new trade routes, Columbus envisioned a westward route to Asia’s wealthy marketplaces. His grandiose initiative was initially regarded with scepticism but eventually gained the support of Spanish kings Ferdinand and Isabella. On August 3, 1492, Columbus set off from Palos de la Frontera with three ships: the Niña, Pinta, and Santa María. This mission, laden with uncertainty and danger, signalled the start of a new age.
Columbus’ crew spotted land on October 12, 1492, after months of difficult navigation and running out of provisions. They had arrived in the Bahamas, a sharp contrast to their intended destination of Asia. Undeterred, Columbus christened the island San Salvador and continued his expedition of the Caribbean, stopping at Cuba and Hispaniola. This first journey was followed by three further missions, which solidified Spain’s presence in the New World and signalled the start of widespread European colonisation.
Columbus’ discoveries had a tremendous and immediate impact throughout Europe. His stories about vast, unexplored countries brimming with resources sparked a wave of exploration and conquest. Nations rushed to stake their claims in the New World, motivated by the prospect of wealth and territorial expansion. This period of discovery, known as the Age of Discovery, transformed the geopolitical landscape. European nations established colonies, exploiting indigenous inhabitants and collecting enormous wealth from the newly discovered territories.
The ramifications of Columbus’ voyages were profound, ushering in a period of global connection. The Columbian Exchange, a term coined to characterise the massive flow of plants, animals, culture, human populations, and ideas between the Americas, Africa, and the Old World, transformed communities on both sides of the Atlantic. Potatoes, tomatoes, and maize were introduced to Europe from the Americas, revolutionising agriculture and food. In contrast, European animals, cereals, and diseases had a significant impact on the New World, frequently with terrible implications for indigenous communities.
While Columbus’ missions expanded horizons and fuelled economic progress, they also left a grim legacy of exploitation and suffering. The arrival of Europeans in the Americas resulted in the oppression and decimation of indigenous cultures. Slavery, forced labour, and the introduction of deadly illnesses like smallpox devastated aboriginal populations. The transatlantic slave trade, fuelled by colonial labour needs, continued a centuries-long cycle of human suffering and injustice.
Today, the legacy of Columbus’ expeditions is evaluated through a complex lens. His travels are regarded as watershed moments in history, establishing links between distant continents, stimulating cultural interchange and economic progress. However, this recognition is balanced by a critical analysis of the enormous human cost endured by indigenous and enslaved peoples.
Columbus’ travels have left an indelible mark on the global fabric of today. The mingling of many cultures and traditions, a direct result of the Age of Discovery, has improved society worldwide. The foods we consume, the languages we speak, and the rituals we follow all reflect the long-lasting legacy of this period of travel.
In recent years, there has been an increasing push to re-examine and contextualise Columbus’ legacy. Efforts to recognise indigenous peoples’ resilience and contributions are gaining traction as communities seek to reconcile with history. This contemplative approach emphasises the necessity of comprehending history in its whole, including both its accomplishments and its injustices.
Christopher Columbus’ trip in 1492 was a watershed moment that forever changed the path of history. It signalled the start of an era of exploration that linked distant worlds, paving the way for the globalised civilisation we live in today. As we reflect on this historic event, it is critical to recognise the dual character of its legacy: celebrating the spirit of discovery while also honouring the resilience of those who faced its repercussions. By doing so, we gain a better knowledge of our common history and the complicated forces that have shaped the current world.
Elisabet's Odyssey Through Cultures and Moments
Within the enormous expanse of photography, photos cease to be just snapshots and instead become portals into the core of cultures, tales, and the human experience. In this domain, Elisabet Chintia stands out, her camera capturing not just moments, but the soul of our variegated planet.
In an exclusive interview with Mahacaraka® Press, Elisabet reveals the core of her photographic journey—her passion, her obstacles, and the deep encounters that changed her viewpoint.
What does photography mean to you?
“For me, photography is about direct observation, whether through a lens or with the unaided eye, immersing myself in the complexities of global cultures and celebrations,” says Elisabet. Photography, for her, is a means of cultural discovery and personal expression.
Could you recount a memorable ‘behind-the-lens’ experience from your recent travels?
“The most gratifying aspect for me is capturing portraits of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, each with their unique facial features and cultural nuances,” she says. Through her lens, she not only captures photographs but also digs into her subjects’ souls, weaving their experiences into her visual tapestry.
What is the most challenging aspect of photographing in unfamiliar environments, and how do you overcome it?
“Adapting to unfamiliar environments, be it extreme weather or unfamiliar cultures, poses a challenge,” she says. However, she approaches these challenges with humility and thankfulness, seeing them as chances for personal development and cultural immersion.
As you travel the globe, which local culture fascinates you the most?
“For me, the allure lies in Himalaya, Africa and India, where every tribe boasts its own unique customs, attire, and architectural marvels,” she says. She finds her inspiration in these varied cultural landscapes, capturing the essence of diversity with each click of her camera.
Can you summarise your photographic philosophy in a single sentence?
“Embrace the unique essence of each destination you visit,” Elisabet suggests. Through her lens, she welcomes viewers on a visual trip, encouraging them to enjoy the world’s many treasures with open hearts and questioning minds.
Elisabet’s insightful thoughts are accompanied with glimpses of her exceptional photography—timeless images that capture the soul of a location or the spirit of its people.
Through Elisabet Chintia’s vision, we are taken beyond geographical limits to a world where cultures collide, tales connect, and mankind discovers a common thread. Her photographs are more than just images; they are invitations to explore, connect, and celebrate the kaleidoscope of life that unfolds before us.