In the community of Palenque, a natural treasure flows vigorously through the entire territory: the Palenque stream. But this body of water goes beyond its basic function as a water source. For the Palenqueros, the stream is the very soul of their community, shaping not only their physical environment but also their identities, social relations and commitment to the environment.
In San Basilio de Palenque, a town located in the thickets of the Montes de María, 45 minutes from the city of Cartagena, Colombia, this main stream crosses the community from south to north. It is the water source of the population and is divided into sectors such as Caballito, La Piedra, La Anguilla, etc., and plays a fundamental role in the culture of the Palenquero people.
“For us Palenqueros, the stream is much more than just a body of water. It is our link to the past, a reflection of our identity and a guardian of our traditions,” commented Bernardino Pérez Miranda, philologist, writer and teacher at the Benko Bioho agricultural technical institution in the Palenquera community, who is also a cultural manager and is linked to the community’s environmental processes, as a member of the territory’s youth environmental guard. He is also my father.
This natural resource symbolizes and summons life. The stream is of great importance for the community and its identity, as it represents the center of life in which cultural daily life is manifested, as a recreational, communicative space for consultation and conflict resolution. Many of the great Palenquero stories, legends and myths that come to life through oral tradition, emerged in the most hidden, gloomy and attractive spaces of the creek, from falling in love with the Kuagros -which represents the Palenque social organizational model-, to the magical religious creatures of the Palenque cosmovision, such as the Mohán and his underwater world, to whom disappearances, deaths and kidnappings are attributed.
“When we were children, our grandparents would take us to the stream and tell us stories of heroes and heroines who lived on the banks, of magical creatures that inhabited its waters and of forbidden loves that flourished among its currents. Each story was like a window to the past, a way to connect with our roots and understand who we were as a people,” shared Pérez Miranda.
In the cultural fabric of Palenque, the Kuagros emerge as central figures, symbolizing the social organizational model of this community. These guardians of tradition embody values of solidarity, cooperation and resilience in the face of adversity. They are considered protectors of the stream and the community as a whole, and their stories are intertwined with the family and community ties that form the core of Palenquera identity. Through oral legends, they narrate the heroic deeds and feats of the Kuagros, who serve as an inspiration for future generations, reminding them of the importance of preserving their cultural roots and facing challenges with determination and unity.
El Mohán. This mythical figure, rooted in the Palenque cosmovision, represents the connection between the earthly world and the underwater spiritual world. It is attributed with supernatural powers and a mysterious influence over the destinies of those who venture into the depths of the stream. Through stories passed down from generation to generation, the Mohán becomes a symbol of respect for nature and caution in the face of the unknown. His stories, full of mystery and fascination, invite us to reflect on the relationship between human beings and the natural environment, as well as on the importance of preserving the balance between the two to ensure the harmony and well-being of the community.
The stream is a place of practices and preparation of the Palenquero being in the communicative-community processes. It is here that the palenqueros gather to wash clothes, fish or simply enjoy its ecosystem. For decades the banks of the creek have been witness to community gatherings, cultural celebrations and recreational activities.
Amidst the hustle and bustle and the joy that emanated from the stream, unforgettable moments were generated that still resonate in the memory of many palenqueros with nostalgia and affection. The video concerts that took place in this natural space became real parties, where music and fun merged with the freshness of the water and the warmth of the sun. Dancing and dipping in the waters of the creek while enjoying the music in the company of friends and family created a unique atmosphere of joy.
I fondly remember how we would go in kuagros (groups of friends), eager to impress and amuse those who joined in this outdoor celebration. It was an experience that transcended the ordinary, where every encounter and every laugh were engraved in the heart of the community. These moments were not only a form of entertainment, but also an expression of the vibrant Palenquera identity, where music and celebration became an integral part of daily life.
The importance of the stream transcends the social and cultural to become a fundamental element of the Palenquero identity. The stories and legends surrounding the creek are an integral part of the community’s oral heritage. “The creek has not only been the setting for our stories, it has also been a source of inspiration for our artists and musicians. Its waters have inspired poems and songs that speak of love, freedom and the struggle for justice. It is as if the creek were an infinite well of creativity, always ready to nourish our artistic expressions,” added Pérez Miranda.
The creek is said to have witnessed countless historical events and has been a source of inspiration for local poets and musicians. Among the many cultural expressions that celebrate the importance of the stream in the life of Palenque, the song “Endy Loyo” by the group Kombilesa Mi stands out. This melody, which means “In the Stream” in the Palenquera language, is not only a vibrant sample of the musical richness of the community, but also a call for the care and preservation of this precious natural resource.
With lyrics that resonate with messages of respect for the environment and local culture, “Endy Loyo” reminds us of the importance of keeping the creek clean and not damaging its ecosystem. With verses like, “If you have culture, don’t throw garbage into the stream.”
For the Palenqueros, the stream is a symbol of resistance, perseverance and unity. The creek is not only part of our history, it is part of who we are. It is the scene of countless memories of my childhood, of games and laughter with friends and family. But it is also a constant reminder of the importance of caring for and preserving our natural environment.
However, it faces significant challenges today. Pollution and environmental deterioration threaten their health and beauty. That is why I have been actively involved in community initiatives to protect it. We organize periodic cleanups and awareness campaigns to remind everyone of the importance of keeping our creek clean and healthy.
Because the stream is not only part of our present, it is also our legacy for future generations. It is our responsibility to ensure that it continues to be the heartbeat of our community for many years to come. It is our commitment as Palenqueros to preserve this natural treasure that unites and defines us as a people.
In a world where natural resources are increasingly scarce, the story of Palenque and its stream reminds us of the importance of valuing and protecting our local environments. Because, at the end of the day, it is these little oases of life that hold us together as communities and connect us to our land and our history.
