Picoazá

Picoazá is an urban parish in Portoviejo Canton, Manabí Province, Ecuador. It is situated on the western side of the city of Portoviejo[1] and has a population of nearly 19,000.[2]

History

Archeological finds made in the area in 2008 suggest that Picoazá is the site of a pre-Columbian settlement.[3] In 1907, the second archaeological expedition of Marshall Howard Saville involved the exploration of caves around Picoazá,[4] and in particular the Cerro Jaboncilla and Cerro de Hojas sites, which are 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away from Picoazá. They provided many important artefacts to Saville. Picoazá was itself the site of a Manteño chiefdom, according to early colonial sources,[5] and contained quantities of characteristic Manteño pottery and large stone foundations.[6] It was split into four major settlements, with the chief of the principal settlement overlord.[5] The archeological site was declared a national cultural patrimony in 2009.[2]

Tourism and demographics

This part of Manabí Province is known for its cuisine, fine beaches, and ceibo trees, which are unique to the region. Picoazá is also a commercial center, distributing agricultural products and consumer goods.[7]

The average family income in Picoazá is about US$120 per month.[8] The town has inadequate potable water, sewers, and telephone service.[2]

Politics

A strange incident involving a fictitious write-in candidacy occurred in the town in 1967. A company ran a series of campaign-themed advertisements for a foot powder called Pulvapies. Some of the slogans used included "Vote for any candidate, but if you want well-being and hygiene, vote for Pulvapies", and "For Mayor: Honorable Pulvapies." The foot powder Pulvapies ended up receiving the most votes in the election.[9][10][11]

References

  1. ↑ The Picoazá website. Retrieved on March 26, 2010.
  2. 1 2 3 http://www.expreso.ec/ediciones/2009/06/04/generales/revolucion-llega-a-la-arqueologia/default.asp?fecha=2009/06/04
  3. ↑ Hallazgo arqueológico en Picoazá Retrieved on March 26, 2010.
  4. ↑ Silverman, H., Isbell, W. Handbook of South American Archaeology. p. 512. Retrieved 28 March 2010.
  5. 1 2 Peregrine, P. N.; et al. (2001). Encyclopedia of Prehistory: Middle America. 5. p. 307. Retrieved 28 March 2010.
  6. ↑ Peregrine (2001) p.320
  7. ↑ KIVA micro-bank Retrieved on March 26, 2010.
  8. ↑ Project Picoazá Retrieved on March 26, 2010.
  9. ↑ "Foot Powder Produces Headaches in Ecuador." The New York Times. July 18, 1967. Page 39. Retrieved on December 19, 2009.
  10. ↑ Snopes report on the election result
  11. ↑ "Foot Powder Wins Election Hands Down." The Washington Post. 18 July 1967 (p. A13).

Coordinates: 1°02′S 80°30′W / 1.033°S 80.500°W / -1.033; -80.500

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