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Ecuador: Andean Spaces - Traversing the Colonial City and the Natural World

January 5-25, 2009

SPAN 448E (3 credits)

Explore the history and cultures of Ecuador from the colonial period to the onset of independence. By studying the socio-spatial configuration of the colonial city as exemplified by Quito and Cuenca, we will open a window into the transcultural aspects of artistic, architectonical, and cultural manifestations of Ecuador.

  • Classes held at the Universidad de San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) and the Instituto Santiago de Quito (ISQ).
  • Visits in Quito to the City's Museum, the Museum of the Central Bank (Precolumbian and Colonial Arts) as well as the Franciscan, Dominican, Augustinian, and Jesuit Churches/ Convents will complement classes.
  • Excursions: a day trip to the Indian Market of Otavalo, a half-day trip to the equator, and an overnight trip to the City of Cuenca to visit Riobamba, the Chimborazo volcano, Ingapirka ruins, etc.

The Universidad de San Francisco de Quito, founded in 1987, is located in Cumbayá, a valley adjacent to Quito, Ecuador. Its founders revolutionized education when they established the first private university in Ecuador and to this day USFQ is seen as the standard of excellence in Ecuadorian higher education. The Instituto Santiago de Quito (ISQ) is another university campus located three hours south of Quito in the culturally rich colonial town of Riobamba. With state of the arts facilities and high quality faculty members, students are guaranteed the perfect academic environment.

Accommodations

Participants will stay with local Quiteño families providing full room and board. While traveling, students will be housed in dormitories.

Faculty and Staff

Dr. Eyda Merediz, a faculty member in Maryland's Department of Spanish and Portuguese, will teach the course with two USFQ faculty members: Carmen Fernandez Salvador (Art History) and Sabrina Guerra (History). Dr. Merediz's research focuses on Colonial Latin America, Early Modern Spain and Transatlantic Studies. Please contact Dr. Merediz for information about course content and itinerary.

For questions about the application, registration and pre-departure logistics, please contact Shoshana Griffith, a Program Assistant in the Study Abroad Office.