A True Caribbean Lifestyle
The Kuna or Cuna Indians are indigenous to the border of Panama and Colombia. The Kuna people live on more than 50 small Caribbean islands know as the San Blas Islands that are located about 12 miles off the south eastern edge of Panama and in the north west mountains of Colombia in the Darien Rainforest. They live traditionally in thatched huts made out of wood, other plants and materials found in nature. They depend on local agriculture and fishing for much of their needs but the sale of molas is a valuable source of income for many households.
The Kuna and Their Artwork
The Kuna are famous for these colorful hand sewn Mola panels that are part of their traditional dress. Mola means "clothing" in the Kuna language. Traditionally they also wear a sarong, beaded arm and leg bands, a nose ring and a head scarf.
The Kuna and Their Culture
The Kuna are a matriarchal society. Daughters are preferred to sons as they eventually bring more manpower to the household do to the fact that it is their custom that once married the groom must live in his in-laws house and fulfill an apprenticeship under the father in-law for several years.
The Kuna people have the highest rate of albinism in the world. The albino people are revered as the Children of the Moon and are believed gifted with healing properties, wise and therefore hold a high place in society.
The Kuna have one of the most advanced political systems of any tribal group in the world. They are also one of the most culturally intact and politically autonomous tribes of all the indigenous groups from South America.
The Kuna truly have a unique and beautiful culture that we hope to continue to celebrate and preserve.
