In rural parishes of the Metropolitan District of Quito, events for Holy Week are taking place, showcasing a deep sense of identity, popular religiosity, and cultural heritage, as reported by the capital's municipality. Locations like Puéllaro, Alangasí, and La Merced maintain traditions that bring together the community while attracting hundreds of visitors each year to participate in these significant celebrations.

Puéllaro, in particular, features a solemn procession as part of its religious manifestation known as La Ruta Escondida, which unites the community in a spiritual journey through the parish. The procession held on Holy Tuesday boasts twelve platforms, known as 'andas,' which are wooden figures representing various religious characters and can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds. This highlights the strength and skill of the 'esclavos,' or slaves, who carry these heavy structures on their shoulders during the procession, reinforcing the area's spiritual tradition.

This year's events reflect the vibrancy of local customs and their capacity to draw in tourists, underpinning the significance of cultural heritage in Ecuador. Such festivities not only enhance community bonds but also emphasize the importance of preserving and celebrating local religious practices as vital components of identity in the face of modern challenges. As Quito's rural areas continue to embrace these traditions, they serve as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and community in shaping cultural narratives.