The folklore of death: ‘Cantos de angeles’ and cultural syncretism on the island of Chiloé

Chiloé has become well-known as a cultural tourism destination since its registration as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2000 on account of its distinctive wooden architecture. Similarly, the island's tradition of song, dance and instrumental performance has come to play a large role in summer season tourism in the region. But while these two aspects of the island's 'patrimonio cultural' (cultural heritage) have established a high visibility in the island's branding as a tourism destination, a number of equally distinct cultural traditions continue - albeit 'below the radar' of tourism marketing. Amongst these are a number of elaborate syncreticisms that combine European colonial and indigenous traditions in highly idiosyncratic ways. A prime example is the ‘cantos de angeles’, a particular song form used for the funerals of children under the age of five. While this ritual existed in other parts of Chile, the isolation of Chiloé from the mainland has preserved it in distinct form. This particular ritual will be discussed with reference to the folklore surrounding death that exists on Chiloé.