Speculators and santuristas

Abstract

Within the last ten years, cultural tourisn based mainly on Afro-Cuban folklore has grown considerably in Havana. At the same time, an increasing number of foreigners are visiting the island in order to learn about religions such as santería and palo monte, both considered as having their roots in Africa. In the economical crisis facing Cuba today, religíon has become one of the most efficient way to improve one's economical situation. This fact is discussed and criticized at various levels of Cuban society. This article analyses this phenomenon, considering criticisms of mercantilism as an ambigous `category of accusation' typical of the exchanges between practitioners and of the social relations on the island in general. Based on ethnographic researches conducted in Havana, this article also addresses the classical distinction between sacred and profane. Distinctions between cultural, artistic, religious, political, emotional and economical dimensions is also discussed. We will see that those dimensions are always manifest and connected together in touristic shows as well as in religious ceremonies.