Origin and history
Who introduced the contemporary duende theme in Baños de Agua Santa?
The documented contemporary visual phenomenon begins in 2013 with La Casa del Duende, created by Fito Girolami and Catalina Lucz-Ligeti. Older oral stories about duendes existed in Ecuador, but the public artistic project, its visual language and its connection with Baños form a distinct contemporary process.
Who created La Casa del Duende?
Artists Fito Girolami and Catalina Lucz-Ligeti created the project after arriving in Baños in 2012. La Casa del Duende opened in 2013 as a home workshop and independent cultural space.
What is La Aldea Mágica?
It is the garden and walkable expansion of La Casa del Duende, created in 2018. It combines original sculptures, nature, paths, small texts and evening lights.
Did duende folklore exist before this project?
Yes. Duende traditions are much older and appear in many regions. The project does not claim to have invented folklore; it documents the origin of a particular contemporary artistic phenomenon in Baños.
Visiting
Can I visit?
Yes. La Aldea Mágica is located on Calle Oriente in the Coliseum area of Baños de Agua Santa, approximately 700 metres from the Basilica park.
Do I need a reservation?
No reservation is normally required. During public holidays or for special visits, confirming by WhatsApp is recommended.
When is the best time to visit?
Daylight allows you to observe the materials and natural setting. At dusk and in the evening, the lights transform the paths and sculptures.
How much is admission?
Adult admission is USD 4. Admission for children and older adults is USD 2.
Is the site accessible?
The main entrance allows wheelchair access, although some internal sections have gentle changes in level.
Artworks and purchases
Are the figures handmade?
Yes. They are created individually, and each piece has its own features, expression and finish.
Can I buy a figure without visiting?
Yes. Current photographs and availability can be requested through WhatsApp. Shipping is arranged according to destination and size.
Are these mass-produced souvenirs?
No. The figures offered directly by La Casa del Duende belong to an independent artistic and handcrafted practice.
Meaning and research
Why is the word “duende” not translated as “goblin”?
The Spanish word is preserved because “goblin” carries different literary and visual associations. Here, duende names a broader cultural and artistic figure linked to folklore, territory, craftsmanship and imagination.
What is Cultural Duendismo?
It is a framework for studying the relationships between the duende, artistic creation, territory, tourism, authorship and cultural memory.
Does the project claim that duendes physically exist?
No biological or supernatural claim is presented as verified fact. The project explores duendes as symbolic, folkloric, artistic and cultural figures.