There are crafts that we can find throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, like hammocks, ceramics and colorful embroidery, but especially across the State of Campeche, where original arts and crafts are a clear cultural expression of its living Mayan culture.
Craftsmanship is an important source of income for local families throughout the State, in municipalities such as Hopelchén, Campeche City, Calkini, Carmen, Champotón, Hecelchakán and Tenabo. Visiting, and acquiring some of these treasures, contributes to a better life for artisan families.
Crafts are a cultural expression and a key element of an immersive experience of Campeche. They can be easily found in craft shops, boutiques, casas de artesanías and ateliers in Campeche City, and also in communities where they are made.
1.-Panama- style hats made from JipiJapa palm, are one of the most representative crafts of the region. They are created in pueblos like Becal, Santa Cruz, Tankuché and San Nicolás. The palm has to be woven when humid, therefore, hats and baskets are made by families, inside caves that keep the palm moist.
2.-Tepakan pottery is well known for its beautiful pieces that show their prehispanic heritage in its style and technique. Clay work in this region is created by mayan artisans, whose know- how has been transmitted through generations.
3.-Embroidery is also an important craft made by women who have preserved tradition across the State. Distinctive styles can be found, like the Xooc Bi Chuy or cross stitch; black on white designs for traditional dresses and blouses; and colorful embroidered straps on black natural fabrics, using silk or linen thread.
4.-Campeche hammocks are characteristic due to their tight and even knitting. They are made from natural local fabrics like cotton and henequen, using wooden frames. Hammocks are part of Cmpeche’s identity, since they have been used as beds throughout history.
5.- Objects made from bull horn, seashells, fish scales and carved wood are also crafted in the communities of Champotón, Escárcega, Palizada and Isla Aguada. Delicate pieces of jewelry from bull horn, miniature boats from sea shells; and sleek wooden kitchenware, are only a few of the many pieces to find in crafts shops, ateliers and stalls.
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