Amazon & Galapagos Day
Amazon & Galapagos Day
According to legend, Orellana and his exploration party of Spaniards and native peoples successfully arrived from the city of Quito to the grand river's headwaters only after defeating a group of warrior women known as "the Amazons." Following their discovery of the river, they sailed its course to where it emptied into the Atlantic Ocean. The alternative name for the holiday, Dia del Oriente (Orient Day), is a reference to the eastward destination of the explorers.
In observance of the anniversary, Ecuadoran presidents have visited the Amazon and paid homage to the historic expedition of 1542. Other activities include traditional dances, the presentation of folklore, and other cultural festivities.
Ecuador Embassy
2535 15th St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009
202-234-7200; fax: 202-667-3482
AnnivHol-2000, p. 26