Santeria - Religion Thrives In Cuba

HAVANA, CUBA - JANUARY 19: Santeria "babalawo" (high priest) Victor Omolofaoro Betancourt, President of the Association Ifa Iranlowo, poses in front of his outdoor altar on January 19, 2002 at his home in Havana, Cuba. Santeria developed centuries ago in Cuba when the Roman Catholic saints and traditions were blended with Yoruba deities brought by West African slaves, in order to protect believers from persecution. Today, the religion is a visible part of the Cuban street scene, particularly in the major cities. (Photo by Sven Creutzmann/Mambo Photography/Getty Images)