The Gold Museum, part of the Bank of the Republic of Colombia, preserves and
protects this fabulous cultural legacy. The most important museum of its kind
anywhere, Museo del Oro showcases the work of ancient peoples who believed gold
is the materialization of the life-giving energy from Father Sun.
The Museo del Oro in SantaFé de Bogotá, Colombia, offers a splendid
presentation of more than 33,000 items of gold and emeralds and other precious
materials crafted in pre-Hispanic times.
The Quinceanera tradition celebrates the young girl(la Quinceanera), and
recognizes her journey from childhood to maturity.The customs highlight God,
family, friends, music, food, and dance.
The Quinceanera celebration traditionally begins with a
religious ceremony. A Reception is held in the home or a banquet hall. The
festivities include food and music, and in most, a choreographed waltz or dance
performed by the Quinceanera and her Court.
It is traditional for the Quinceanera to choose special friends to participate
in what is called the Court of Honor.
The Quinceanera's Court of Honor can be comprised of all young girls (called
Dama), all young men (called Chambelán or Escorte or Galán) or a combination of
both..
The Quinceanera traditionally wears a ball gown, with her Court dressed in gowns
and tuxedos.
There are many traditions throughout the quinceanera
celebration. One of the most popular is the Changing of the Shoes. The father or
favored male relative ceremoniously changes the young girl’s flat shoes to high
heels. This is a beautiful symbol of the Quinceañera’s transformation from a
little girl to a young lady.
At the reception, there is always the toast to the Quinceanera, known as the
brindis
At the church ceremony, a special Kneeling Pillow, sometimes personalized with
the Quinceañera’s name, is placed in position for the young girl to kneel on
during the ceremony
The Quince Años is a glorious celebration that remains a
cherished and honored tradition.
A Quinceañera is the Hispanic tradition of
celebratinga young girl's coming of age -
her 15th birthday.