Chakiñan: recovery of ancestral infrastructure and management of the living territory in the community of Las Lagunas, Saraguro, Ecuador

Abstract

Indigenous communities in Ecuador, such as Las Lagunas in Saraguro, possess an autonomous organization based on the Ayllu and the Andean worldview. Their system of ancient trails, called chakiñanes, has historically facilitated mobility and connectivity with sacred sites. However, the lack of upkeep and the pressure of motorized urban development threaten their survival. This research analyzes chakiñanes as ancestral infrastructure for sustainable habitat management. Through a multiscalar, mixed approach —integrating participatory mapping, photogrammetry, and the diagnosis of water and spiritual infrastructure—44 ancient trails were identified. The findings reveal that 95% of the community considers these routes vital to their identity, despite their physical fragmentation. It is concluded that revitalizing the chakiñanes through a micro-basin approach and the use of local materials will not only restore pedestrian mobility but also strengthen territorial governance for sustainable habitat and cultural landscape conservation.