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  • Babalawo reading a fortune with money cowry shells. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2532_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1439_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6298_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2525_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria shrine in a private Cabildo. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_2225_1_1_1.jpg
  • Chicken being cooked after it has been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0606_1_1_1.jpg
  • Religious articles shop selling beads and ceremonial herbs. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8258_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits). Nowadays, the religion is a true mixture of beliefs, with adherents taking different aspects on board either leaning more towards the Catholic or African side, depending on their personal choices.
    _MG_2468_1_1_1.jpg
  • Ceremonies can last for many hours, with various aspects that have to be enacted in full. It is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0498_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria shrine in a private Cabildo. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8041_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6248_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo blessing a young woman with a chicken before sacrificing it into the river. Bosque Almendares in Havana is an important place for Santeria ceremonies where ahderents make offerings to the Orishas. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3467_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo blessing a young woman with a chicken before sacrificing it into the river. Bosque Almendares in Havana is an important place for Santeria ceremonies where ahderents make offerings to the Orishas. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3411_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3103_1_1_1.jpg
  • As adherants of Santeria receive their initiations for the different Orisha they get a physical representation of the 'saint'. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2827_1_1_1.jpg
  • Important physical articles used in a Santeria ceremony. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2595_1.jpg
  • Music is an importatn part of Santeria, which is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1801_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1744_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits). The religion grew in social centres called Cabildos. The Cabildo pictured is one of the oldest in Cuba, it is in Palmira; widely regarded as the birthplace of Santeria.
    _MG_1672_1_1_1.jpg
  • Part of the ceremony involves feasting on the animals that have been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1606_1_1_1.jpg
  • A herbal mixture is used to cleanse the heads of those being initiated. The mixture is prepared by hand for a long time, the idea being that it will encase the positive, cleansing energy from those preparing it. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1556_1_1_1.jpg
  • Young afro Cuban man giving his respects to Chango - the Orisha that he is ruled by. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_1411_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0567_1_1_1.jpg
  • Women have different roles in the ceremonies such as plucking the chickens before they are eaten. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0520_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0414_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6309_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6275_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6109_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3027_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3011_1_1_1.jpg
  • Bosque Almendares in Havana is an important place for Santeria ceremonies where ahderents make offerings to the Orishas. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2953_1_1_1.jpg
  • Music is an importatn part of Santeria, which is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1751_1_1_1.jpg
  • Each of the clay statues is an 'Ellegua'. Adherents of the practice first have to receive Ellegua, and he is the Orisha that is always summonded first, as he is the one who directly communicates to Olodumare: almighty God. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1619_1_1_1.jpg
  • Cleaning up after a full day's ceremony. Part of the ceremony involves feasting on the animals that have been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1612_1_1_1.jpg
  • A herbal mixture is used to cleanse the heads of those being initiated. The mixture is prepared by hand for a long time, the idea being that it will encase the positive, cleansing energy from those preparing it. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1529_1_1_1.jpg
  • The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1423_1_1_1.jpg
  • The ceremonies take a great deal of preparation, and involve sacred herbs and mixtures, as well as spraying rum as a blessing. Babalawo using rum to bless a shrine. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1257_1_1_1.jpg
  • The day after the ceremony, clean white clothes and a mongoose offered to the Orishas remain. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0679_1_1_1.jpg
  • Ceremonies can last for many hours, with various aspects that have to be enacted in full. It is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0615_1_1_1.jpg
  • Chickens and pigeons that have been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0541_1_1_1.jpg
  • San Lazaro ceremony in December in a private Cabildo in Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6764_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2398_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1797_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1765_1_1_1.jpg
  • Statue of Santa Barbera who is linked to the Orisha Chango. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_1667_1_1_1.jpg
  • Part of the ceremony involves feasting on the animals that have been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1611_1_1_1.jpg
  • Ceremonial herbs are moxed in special clay bowls, each mixture representing a different Orisha. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0658_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria shrine in a private Cabildo. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_7971_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6414_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6326_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3108_1_1_1.jpg
  • The ceremonies take a great deal of preparation from Babalawos, and involve sacred herbs and mixtures. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2853_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2555_1_1_1.jpg
  • Many families who practice choose to initiate their children at a young age. Depending on the level of initiation, the ceremony can cost hundreds of dollars, well over an average year's salary for the family. Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1790_1_1_1.jpg
  • Butchered goat after it has been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0596_1_1_1.jpg
  • Many families who practice choose to initiate their children at a young age. The ceremony can cost hundreds of dollars, well over an average year's salary for the family. This ceremony was for two brothers aged 5 and 7 whose parents actively practice Santeria. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0412_1_1.jpg
  • Female Santera in her home that is a Cabildo. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_9910_1_1_1.jpg
  • Callejon de Hamel, rhumba performance in Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8836_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3039_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is more popular than ever before and still growing. Because it was always underground, Castro's ban on religion during the second half of the 20th Century had little effect, and in many cases the Santeros continued as before. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2576_1_1_1.jpg
  • Young afro-Cuban men playing drums as part of a Santeria ceremony. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2361_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1764_1_1_1.jpg
  • This herbal mixture will be used to cleanse the heads of those being initiated. The mixture is prepared by hand for a long time, the idea being that it will encase the positive, cleansing energy from those preparing it. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1350_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using rum to bless a shrine. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1161_1_1_1.jpg
  • Religious articles shop selling beads and ceremonial herbs. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8182_1_1_1.jpg
  • San Lazaro ceremony in December in a private Cabildo in Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6688_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3045_1_1_1.jpg
  • Part of the ceremony involves feasting on the animals that have been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1572_1_1_1.jpg
  • Cuban Santero family dancing Salsa in their house. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_9431_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo reading a fortune with money cowry shells. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2537_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2508_1_1_1.jpg
  • La Regla church is a centre for Santeria, linked to the Orisha Yemaja. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0757_1.jpg
  • Various charms representing luck and protection. The pigeon stays hanging above the door throughout the ritual, lasting several days. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0554_1_1_1.jpg
  • Religious articles shop selling beads and ceremonial herbs. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8193_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6272_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is not regarded as an official religion by the state, and therefore has no official places of worship, the ceremonies are carried out in the houses of the Santeros. It is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2998_1_1_1.jpg
  • The ceremonies take a great deal of preparation from Babalawos, and involve sacred herbs and mixtures. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2844_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo reading a fortune with money cowry shells. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2560_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1444_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1438_1_1_1.jpg
  • La Regla church is a centre for Santeria, linked to the Orisha Yemaja. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0720_1_1_1.jpg
  • Each of the animals sacrificed in this ceremony were offered to a different Orisha (spirit God), here the goat for Ellegua is labelled. Butchered goat after it has been sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_0611_1_1_1.jpg
  • Ceremonial herbs ready for a ceremony. anteria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_9976_1_1_1.jpg
  • Young Afro Cuban men preparing the chickens for a Santeria ceremony. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_9947_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria shrine in a private Cabildo. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_7956_1_1_1.jpg
  • Bosque Almendares in Havana is an important place for Santeria ceremonies where ahderents make offerings to the Orishas. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_3512_1_1_1.jpg
  • The ceremonies take a great deal of preparation from Babalawos, and involve sacred herbs and mixtures. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2851_1_1_1.jpg
  • As adherants of Santeria receive their initiations for the different Orisha they get a physical representation of the 'saint'. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2834_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2501_1_1_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2392_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1791_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1779_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1762_1_1_1.jpg
  • Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1648_1_1_1.jpg
  • Music is an importatn part of Santeria, which is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1506_1_1_1.jpg
  • Music is an importatn part of Santeria, which is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1175_1_1_1.jpg
  • La Regla church is a centre for Santeria, linked to the Orisha Yemaja. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_8099_1_1_1.jpg
  • The pilgrimage of San Lazaro in December is the largest religious event in Cuba when thousands of people make their way to El Rincon church on the outskirts of Havana. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits)
    _MG_6319_1.jpg
  • Babalawo using cowry shells and corn powder to read the fortunes of the people being initiated. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_2473_1_1_1.jpg
  • Animal sacrifice is an integral part of the rituals. Santeros believe that blood is necessary to release the negative energy and spirits of those involved. The participants of a Santeria ceremony are blessed with the animal before it is sacrificed. Santeria is a syncretic religion practiced in Cuba, it is a mixture of Yoruba tribal practices brought from Nigeria during Colonial times, and traditional Catholic beliefs. During this time, the slaves used the images of saints to cover up their worship of the Orishas (spirits).
    _MG_1431_1_1_1.jpg
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