The Virgin of Macas Festival is a 400-year-old old tradition that dates back to 16th century Ecuador. The festival originated in the town of Macas, a small city of 30 000 in the Province of Morona-Santiago, Ecuador.
At one time, the festival was limited to the inhabitants of Macas. However, in 1998 a peace treaty was signed between Peru and Ecuador, allowing free passage into this beautiful city.
In 1591, the city of Macas was home to a small church embedded in a cave in the mountains. The church contained a beautiful painting called La Purisima de Macas, or the Virgin of Macas. Legend has it that in 1592, the painting changed mysteriously.
The church was rebuilt in 1992 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the paintings mysterious metamorphosis. The full story of this miraculous change is depicted in handcrafted glass windows that adorn the new church. Catholics in Macas celebrate the Virgin Of Macas Festival twice each year; Once on August 4 and again on February 18. It is commemorated through large fiestas and processions in and around the church.
Moving Ecuador, online guidebook for responsible travel and volunteering in Ecuador