The cycle marabaixo in Macapá and the Roman Catholic Church: conflicts, ideologies and religious syncretism

Abstract

This paper examines the religious syncretism of the so-called "Marabaixo Cycle" in the city of Macapá, state capital of Amapá, Brazil. It historically contextualizes the emergence of the Marabaixo and describes its concept, practices and relationship with the Roman Catholic Church and African religions, identifying the factors that contributed to its consolidation as an expression of black identity in Amapá. The article also problematizes the difficulties in preserving and disseminating this cultural event in the state and the rest of Brazil.