Alrighty, readers who have been along for the last two months may know that I am addicted to markets. Any market, big or small, food or antiques, I will always be early to arrive and have an in depth look at what is for sale. Well I found a winner! The best local tianguis is at La Penita!
A tianguis is an open aired street market in Mexico. They have been around since the pre-Hispanic age. Stalls line both sides of the streets with tarps and blankets suspended for shade.
The market every Thursday at La Penita de Jaltemba is massive, selling everything from souvenirs to washing machines. This is going to be a multiple part post about this particular market as there are just too many photo’s that I need to share.
Part Uno – Souvenirs
Most of this market is not actually souvenirs. The size of the market is made up from the sheer number of stalls that are selling products to locals, such as clothing, housewares, furniture, tools and hardware and of course food.
Most of the local items for sale are lining various streets around the town square. The square itself however, is where a shopper will find almost all of the souvenirs.
I am a sucker for souvenirs. Previous travels have taught me that no matter how strong I try and be, I always have to bring home multiple pieces of the place that I visited. These little treasures offer a gentle reminder of a happy vacation. There is a reason there are so many souvenirs sold worldwide. Because so many people share my need to take a little piece of that special place back home.
Souvenirs & Souvenirs
Now there are souvenirs and then there are souvenirs, am I right? I think we all know and have seen the millions of cheap little plastic trinkets sold world wide. Mexico is no stranger to these types of souvenirs. But…..this market had some genuine pieces of arts and crafts that were astoundingly beautiful.
I love art, all forms, shapes, styles, colours, genre’s. I just can’t get enough. The things that people can create with their bare hands and minds continually amazes and humbles me. The Mexican people are so utterly creative. From the materials, colours and applications they use, the talent here in this country is incredible.
If I could I would buy boxes of these things just to surround myself with brightness, passion and craft. From the vivid colourful rugs and bedspreads, to the painted hand made paper wall hangings. The jewellery, the Huichol beading, the Otomi embroidery, the leather bags, the list is endless.
I will be back at this market next week for sure. It was so overwhelming but in a good way. The local people were most friendly and inviting. If you are ever in this little village, I urge you to visit this tianguis on a Thursday and be immersed in all things Mexico. The market is open from 8am to 2pm and by about 10:30am it was getting quite crowded. Be an early bird if you can and enjoy at your leisure.
