NEIRA CEBALLOS, Zoia et al. ECOLOGIC-CULTURAL SPACES OF A MAPUCHE TERRITORY IN THE ARAUCANIA REGION-CHILE. Chungará (Arica) [online]. 2012, vol.44, n.2, pp.313-323. ISSN 0717-7356. http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0717-73562012000200008.
This is a qualitative study based on a participative action investigation that examines categories and meanings of Mapuche ecological and cultural spaces, in Boroa-Filulawen, Chile. The objectives are identification of ecological spaces and their cultural importance. Data were collected during 14 in depth interviews with Mapuche informants during field visits. The results indicate 14 cultural-ecological spaces of special meaning to the Mapuche. These spaces were valued because of their close relationship with Mapuche cultural cosmogony, landscape, vegetation, rivers and other water sources and their location. For the Mapuche, landscape means more than simply geographical and ecological characteristics; it involves spiritual forces, personifications of elements and mystical entities and beings within the landscape. From a biophysical perspective, the spaces more frequently described are those having adequate water supplies for the growth of vegetable species. These plants may supply foods, medicines, clothing, or be used for special religious or ceremonial occasions. This traditional Mapuche knowledge of ecological spaces is important to preserve the culture as well as to design conservation programs territorially pertinent.
Palabras clave : Ecologic-cultural spaces; ethnobotany; indigenous knowledge; Mapuche.