The island community of Yucayeke, named after the traditional Taíno word for village, is a vibrant testament to the resilience and heritage of its people. Nestled off the coast of Hy Brasil, this sanctuary serves as a home for those who carry the spirit of the Taíno, blending ancestral traditions with the realities of a modern world. The land is lush and bountiful, kissed by the warm sea winds and embraced by the rhythm of waves that have long whispered the stories of their ancestors.
At the heart of Yucayeke lies a dynamic fusion of old and new. Traditional bohíos, round dwellings crafted from palm and thatch, stand alongside structures that seamlessly integrate Taíno architectural elements with modern materials. These homes retain the organic curves and open-air design of their predecessors, while incorporating contemporary comforts. Inside, interiors are adorned with intricate woven patterns, clay pottery, and carvings of zemi spirits, honoring the sacred forces that guide the community.
Life in Yucayeke thrives in its communal spaces. At its center, an expansive batey serves as a gathering ground for storytelling, music, and the ceremonial areíto—a dance that connects the people to their ancestors. Lush gardens and carefully cultivated fields provide sustenance, with cassava, maize, and tropical fruits flourishing under the watchful care of the islanders. The scent of roasting guanajo and casabe bread fills the air, a reminder that the island is as much about nourishment of the soul as it is of the body.
While the village expands as new souls find their way to its shores, it remains rooted in the principles of coabey, the Taíno afterlife where ancestors dwell in peace. Every pathway, every woven hammock, and every hand-carved canoe tells a story—an unbroken thread that weaves together past and present. In Yucayeke, tradition is not a relic but a living, breathing force, ensuring that the wisdom of the Taíno will endure for generations to come.
Living Spaces
