Mercado de Artesanías | Oaxaca

The Mercado de Artesanías in Oaxaca City is one of the most popular markets for those looking to explore the region's vibrant handicrafts and traditional arts. Located in the city’s historic center, this market offers a stunning variety of locally made goods that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca. Whether you're looking for colorful textiles, intricate wood carvings, or beautiful pottery, the Mercado de Artesanías is the place to be.

Here’s a detailed overview of the Mercado de Artesanías:

1. Location and Atmosphere:

The Mercado de Artesanías is centrally located, just a short walk from the Zócalo (main square) of Oaxaca City, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

The market has a bustling, yet friendly atmosphere, with rows of stalls and shops offering a wide variety of handicrafts. The vibrant displays of bright colors, the hum of conversations, and the sounds of traditional Oaxacan music make the market an exciting place to visit.

It’s an indoor market housed in a spacious building, and it is well-organized, making it easy to navigate. Vendors are often enthusiastic about sharing information about their crafts and sometimes even the processes behind them.

2. Handicrafts and Artisans:

Oaxaca is renowned for its rich artisan traditions, and the Mercado de Artesanías is the perfect place to find many of these locally made products. Some of the most notable items you can find include:

a. Textiles:

Oaxaca is famous for its traditional textiles, especially embroidered blouses, rebozos (shawls), and handwoven rugs. These items are typically made using traditional backstrap looms by local Zapotec and Mixtec women.

You can find brightly colored shawls, tablecloths, pillow covers, and traditional dresses that feature intricate embroidered patterns. Many of these items are created using natural dyes derived from plants and insects, which gives the fabrics rich, deep colors.

The rebozos (long woven scarves) are one of the most iconic textiles of Oaxaca, and many vendors in the market specialize in them.

b. Wood Carvings:

One of the standout crafts of Oaxaca is its wooden carvings, particularly alebrijes—colorfully painted wooden animals that have become a hallmark of Oaxacan art. These fantastical creatures often represent the spiritual world and are crafted with incredible attention to detail.

The alebrijes can range from small figurines to large sculptures. The bright colors and intricate designs are characteristic of this folk art. These carvings make great souvenirs and can be found in various sizes and shapes at the market.

c. Pottery:

Oaxacan pottery is another essential element of the market. The region is famous for its black pottery (barro negro), which is known for its shiny, dark finish. These pieces are often hand-shaped and come in the form of vases, bowls, figurines, and decorative pieces.

You can also find more traditional clay pottery in earthy tones, such as mugs, plates, and traditional cookware, all crafted using methods passed down through generations.

d. Silver Jewelry:

Oaxaca is known for its silver production, and the Mercado de Artesanías has a variety of silver jewelry available for purchase. Local artisans craft intricate silver necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings often adorned with gemstones like turquoise and opal.

The silver pieces found in the market are often made with traditional techniques, and you can find beautiful designs that incorporate Oaxacan symbolism.

e. Handmade Paper Products:

Another popular craft in the market is handmade paper. Vendors sell beautiful handcrafted journals, cards, and art prints that are often decorated with local motifs and plant-based dyes. Some artisans also create handmade papel picado (cut paper) decorations, which are colorful and intricate.

f. Leather Goods:

Leather products, including belts, bags, sandals, and wallets, are commonly found in the Mercado de Artesanías. Many of these items are made with high-quality leather and feature hand-stitched designs.

3. Cultural and Artistic Experience:

Visiting the Mercado de Artesanías offers more than just shopping—it’s a chance to experience the artistry and creativity of the Oaxacan people. Many of the crafts sold here are the result of centuries-old traditions and represent the deep connection between the people of Oaxaca and their cultural heritage.

Many artisans sell their own work, which means you’re directly supporting local artists and their families. The market provides a direct link between visitors and the craftspeople, allowing you to appreciate the work that goes into creating each item.

The artisans are often happy to explain the processes behind their work and the symbolism in their designs. This adds a layer of meaning to your purchase, as each piece often has a deeper connection to Oaxacan culture.

4. Practical Information:

Location: The Mercado de Artesanías is located just a few blocks from the Zócalo, Oaxaca’s main square, making it easy to visit during a day of exploring the city’s historical center.

Opening Hours: The market is typically open daily from around 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours may vary slightly on weekends or holidays, so it's always a good idea to check before your visit.

Currency: The market operates primarily in Mexican pesos, so it’s best to have cash on hand, especially since many smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.

Bargaining: While the market is generally known for fixed prices, there may be some room for negotiation, especially if you're purchasing multiple items. Don't be afraid to politely ask for a discount if you're buying several pieces.

5. Nearby Attractions:

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca: Located near the Zócalo, this museum showcases the history and culture of Oaxaca, including exhibits on Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations, which is a perfect complement to the handicrafts you’ll find at the market.

Templo de Santo Domingo: A short walk from the market, this beautiful church is a must-visit for its impressive Baroque architecture and historical significance.

Templo de la Soledad: Another important church located in the city center, known for its striking architecture and connection to Oaxacan history.

6. Conclusion:

The Mercado de Artesanías is an essential stop for anyone visiting Oaxaca who wants to take home a piece of the region’s rich artistic heritage. From handwoven textiles to intricate wood carvings and beautiful pottery, this market showcases the very best of Oaxacan craftsmanship. It’s a wonderful place to experience the cultural traditions of the area, interact with local artisans, and find unique, handcrafted items that reflect the vibrant spirit of Oaxaca.