The National Academy of History of Ecuador has added a new member whose legacy is deeply intertwined with the land, culture and identity of the country. This is Lourdes Páez, researcher, writer and chocolate sommelier, who joined this institution as a member in recognition of her outstanding work in research and dissemination of information on Ecuadorian cocoa.
Cocoa, known as the "Golden Bean," has played a central role in Ecuador's economic and social history for over 5,000 years, and thanks to the work of Lourdes Páez, its relevance has been documented and shared with the world, through her work "Ecuador Tierra del Cacao" published in 2015, and the English version "The Golden Bean" published in 2022.
Lourdes dedicated four years of her life to exploring the vast world of cocoa, highlighting not only its economic importance, but also its cultural influence and its place in world history.
In her acceptance speech to the National Academy of History, she recalled how since her childhood she was inspired by her grandfather Roberto Páez Flor, and by her father Rodrigo Páez Terán, also members of this Academy. They awakened in her a love for books and the history of food, as elements that have shaped civilizations and transformed societies.
Cacao: A Window to History
Her work Ecuador, Tierra del Cacao , is the most complete book ever written about Ecuadorian cacao, and connects this fruit with political, economic and social aspects, from pre-Columbian time to the current globalization. Cacao is not just an agricultural product; it is a symbol of the wealth and ingenuity of a nation that, since ancient times, has been one of the major producers of this fruit and commodity.
In her speech, Lourdes shared how she first discovered a cocoa pod while working with a development project on the Ecuadorian coast. It was at that moment that she was dazzled by the beauty and potential of the cocoa plantations growing under the shade of enormous mango trees. This connection with cocoa transformed her vision, leading her to delve deeper into her study, connect with farmers and exporters, and delve into the complexity of the cocoa value chain. Her determination to highlight Ecuador's role as a world power in cocoa production led her to write this book.
A Family and National Legacy
During her research, Lourdes visited plantations, factories, laboratories and workshops of master chocolatiers in Europe and North America. On these trips, she discovered the deep respect that other cultures have for chocolate, not only as a food, but as an expression of history, art and culture. For her, cocoa is much more than a source of wealth; it is a bridge between civilizations, a window to understanding the relationship between humanity and its natural environment.
A well-deserved recognition
Lourdes Páez's incorporation into the National Academy of History not only honors her exceptional work, but also the importance of continuing to research cocoa and other essential food products.
In a world that increasingly seeks healthy, sustainable and quality food, Lourdes' work becomes crucial to position Ecuador and its cocoa.
Today we celebrate this recognition of her career, and at the Chocolate Academy, we are proud to have her wisdom and vision. Lourdes Páez is, without a doubt, a true ambassador of Ecuadorian cocoa and a defender of its rich history.
For those who wish to explore more about the legacy of cacao, her book Ecuador, Tierra del Cacao is available in digital format through Amazon, as well as the English version The Golden Bean in Kindle format. The printed version is a deluxe book available only in Ecuador through direct sales from the author.
This is just the beginning of a new stage for Lourdes, and we are sure that her work will continue to inspire future generations to value the living history that grows between the land and the sky of Ecuador.
** We invite you to read this work dedicated to Ecuadorian cocoa, written in an entertaining style, with current information and surprising data that demonstrate the dynamism of the Ecuadorian cocoa sector and its deep connection with this exquisite tropical fruit.
Follow the link via QR codes to the Amazon store.
Direct links to get the books in Spanish and English.
https://amzn.to/4evKuWO Ecuador Land of Cocoa
https://amzn.to/3TSbI1C The Golden Bean
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