The Centers for Interamerican Studies (CEDEI) is a not-for-profit institution of higher learning, dedicated to the study of American languages and cultures. CEDEI was founded in 1992 in recognition of the 500th anniversary of the meeting of the Old and New Worlds. To foster understanding among the people of the Americas, CEDEI sponsors a variety of academic activities independently and in conjunction with universities in North and South America.
CEDEI also offers flexible, non-credit Spanish immersion classes and volunteer opportunities, as well a medical Spanish courses and degrees in Sales and International Marketing and Entrepreneurship though our Technological College.
The main CEDEI center is situated in the beautiful colonial heart of Cuenca, just a few blocks form the central plaza, Parque Calderón. Our building, originally a colonial house, is home to the Department of International Programs and the Spanish Language Department. Our rooftop study area, various classrooms, beautiful garden space, and central location offers a wonderful setting for students to study, relax and take part in cultural dance and cooking classes.
The Setting
Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Despite its small size, Ecuador contains lush rainforest, snow-capped mountain ranges, mangrove estuaries, and tropical coastline. It boasts one of the largest varieties of flora and fauna on the planet, thanks in large part to its vast range of ecosystems. While much of Ecuador is modernized and there is a large mestizo population, Ecuador also contains a wealth of indigenous groups-- each distinctive to their individual province. The programs take full advantage of this wealth of beauty and culture, many include extensive travel, weekend field trips, cultural classes and activities, and conferences on significant local issues.
The programs are primarily based in Cuenca, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Located high in a valley in Ecuador´s southern Andes, the city is home to around 400,000 people and is the third-largest in the country. Nourished by mountain rivers, Cuenca enjoys temperate weather year round.
Modern Cuenca was founded in 1557 upon the site of the Inca city of Tomebamba and the Cañari city of Guapondeleg. The city preserves its pre-Columbian as well as its Spanish heritage. This mix of colonial architecture and Inca ruins, along with all the bustle of living in a buzzing city, makes Cuenca a fascinating place to be in.
In recognition of Cuenca´s historic preservation efforts, UNESCO inscribed the city on its World Heritage List in 1999. Due to its tradition of achievement in scholarship and the arts, Cuenca is often called the Athens of Ecuador. Today Cuenca is the site of several universities, many museums, research and cultural organizations.
Neighboring villages such as Chordeleg, Gualaceo, and Principal are recognized internationally for their folk art. The nearby national park El Cajas, the waterfalls at Girón, and the Inca ruins of Ingapirca provide some of the most dramatic opportunities for camping, hiking, climbing, and exploring the Andes.
