The Kariri-Xocó are an indigenous group from the banks of the São Francisco River, with origins dating back to the period of Jesuit missions in Brazil. The Jesuits founded the village of Colégio to catechize indigenous peoples such as the Kariri, Cropotós, Aconans, Ceococes, and Prakiós. The village thrived until the Jesuits were expelled in 1759, when control passed to other missionaries or secular administration. Over time, the term “caboclo” acquired a derogatory connotation, reflecting imperial policies that devalued indigenous peoples. In 1873, the government dissolved the villages, claiming there were no longer any “pure-blooded Indians.” However, oral tradition attributes land ownership to a supposed donation by Emperor Pedro II in 1859, although there is no official confirmation. The name Kariri-Xocó emerged around 100 years ago with the merging of the Kariri from Porto Real do Colégio and the Xocó from São Pedro Island in Sergipe, who sought refuge after their lands were invaded. The term officially came to identify the group after the establishment of FUNAI and the Kariri Indigenous Post in 1943. Despite this, the Kariri and Xocó identities still hold distinct meanings within the group and are used according to their territorial and political struggles.
The Kariri-Xocó people, located in the São Francisco River region, maintain a rich culture deeply connected to their indigenous roots, even after centuries of contact with colonial and post-colonial society. Although they no longer preserve their original language, the Kariri-Xocó still retain some vocabulary related to their heritage, especially regarding medicinal and magical plants used in their sacred rituals. Their culture is directly tied to the land and ancestry, with cultural practices passed down from generation to generation, reinforcing collective identity and social cohesion within the community. The Kariri-Xocó identity is built around elements that resist modernization, characterized by a respect for spiritual traditions and a continual struggle for their ancestral lands, strengthened by a sense of belonging to an authentic indigenous lineage.
The traditions of the Kariri-Xocó revolve around their spiritual rituals, with the most significant being the Ouricuri, which is the core of the group’s religious and cultural life. The Ouricuri is a secret and sacred ceremony that takes place in a village built specifically for this purpose, bringing the people together for songs, dances, and the consumption of jurema, a spiritual drink that leads participants into a trance and communion with ancestors and deities. This ritual not only connects the group to the sacred but also plays a fundamental role in the social organization and identity of the Kariri-Xocó. Another prominent tradition is the Toré dance, which also carries deep spiritual significance. The Toré appears in two forms: the Toré with clothes, which is more festive and can be performed at general celebrations, and the Toré with shells, a ritualized dance directly linked to the secrets of the Ouricuri. These traditions, particularly the Ouricuri, not only preserve the spirituality of the Kariri-Xocó people but also serve as sources of strength in their territorial struggles, reinforcing their resistance and continuity as an indigenous people.
The social structure of the Kariri-Xocó is based on a strong and cooperative community organization. Leadership is exercised by a council of elders and spiritual leaders, who make decisions collectively. The land is shared among families, who live in small villages called "malocas." This organizational model ensures the sustainability and self-sufficiency of the community. When visiting, you can witness this harmonious way of life and participate in community gatherings that promote unity and cooperation among the Kariri-Xocó.
The economy is based on family farming, with crops such as cassava, corn, beans, and native fruits. Handicraft production, including pottery, baskets, and jewelry, is an important source of income for the community. The Kariri-Xocó Indigenous Association plays a crucial role in marketing these products, promoting sustainable economic development. Support the community by purchasing handicrafts and learning more about traditional production techniques.
The spirituality of the Kariri-Xocó is deeply tied to nature, with beliefs centered around the harmonious relationship between humans and the natural environment. Religious rituals, such as the use of snuff and ayahuasca, are moments of great spiritual and social importance. Explore this spirituality by participating in religious ceremonies and understanding the deep connection the Kariri-Xocó have with nature.
Traditional medicine uses a wide range of medicinal plants from the Caatinga, employed to treat various ailments. Knowledge of these plants is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring the preservation of this ancestral wisdom. Discover the secrets of Kariri-Xocó traditional medicine and take the opportunity to learn about the natural treatments used by the community.
The Kariri-Xocó continue to fight for the preservation of their cultural identity and rights to their lands. The Kariri-Xocó Indigenous Association and other local organizations work tirelessly to ensure the recognition and protection of indigenous rights. Support this important cause when you visit and learn more about the ongoing political and social initiatives.
To reach the Kariri-Xocó Indigenous Land, you can fly to Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport in Maceió, and from there drive to the municipality of Porto Real do Colégio. The journey continues on rural roads to the Kariri-Xocó villages. This journey is a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of the region and the way of life of the Kariri-Xocó.
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book an activity at the Kariri-Xocó Indigenous Land and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of this extraordinary people. Check out the available tourist activities below and prepare for a transformative experience in the heart of Brazil!
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