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Ráquira: Colombia's Pottery Paradise

Discover Ráquira, Colombia: A vibrant town renowned as the 'City of Pots,' offering a rich cultural experience and exquisite handcrafted ceramics.

Ráquira, known as the 'City of Pots,' is a vibrant town in Boyacá, Colombia, celebrated for its rich history, colorful streets, and exquisite handmade ceramics. Founded in 1580, Ráquira has preserved its ancestral traditions, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience in the heart of the Andes.

A brief summary to Ráquira

  • Ráquira, Boyaca, CO

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday to experience the bustling local market, a vibrant social and commercial event.
  • Explore the artisan workshops to witness the creation of traditional ceramics and perhaps participate in a pottery-making session.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Try local Boyacense dishes like arepas and cocido boyacense at the eateries around the Main Plaza.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Villa de Leyva, take a direct bus to Ráquira. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around 8,000 COP. Buses depart regularly from the Villa de Leyva bus terminal.

  • Walking

    Once in Ráquira, the town is easily walkable. The main attractions, including the Plaza and the Church of San Antonio, are located within a few blocks of each other. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the colorful buildings and artisan shops.

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Discover more about Ráquira

Ráquira, meaning 'Village of the Pans' in the Chibcha language, is a captivating town nestled in the Boyacá Department of Colombia. This 'Artisan Capital of Colombia' is renowned for its vibrant culture, colorful streets, and impressive production of handicrafts, especially ceramics and pottery. Founded on October 18, 1580, by Friar Francisco de Orejuela, Ráquira's history stretches back to pre-Columbian times when the Muisca people inhabited the area, already known for their pottery skills. The town seamlessly blends indigenous techniques with European influences, solidifying its reputation as a significant ceramics supplier during the colonial era. Today, Ráquira's economy thrives on its handcrafted goods, with approximately 75% of its income derived from the sale and export of pottery and other artisan products. Walking through the town, you'll encounter streets lined with shops showcasing colorful pottery, handwoven goods, and other Colombian souvenirs. The Main Plaza serves as the heart of Ráquira, bustling with craft shops, local eateries, and a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Notable attractions include the San Antonio de la Pared Church, a beautiful building that combines Gothic and Colonial architectural styles. The town's colorful buildings, adorned with murals and sculptures, create a visually stunning environment, making Ráquira a unique and unforgettable destination. Don't miss the chance to explore the artisan workshops, witness the creation of ceramics using ancestral techniques, and perhaps even try your hand at pottery painting.

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