International artisans take center stage at the Castilla La Mancha Craft Fair in Spain
The annual crafts festival took place in Toledo. In addition to Spanish regional handicrafts, countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Portugal, and France also displayed their handmade products. The 40-year-old craft fair saw more than 140 artisans from various countries this year.
- 2 years ago
November 13, 2022
TOLEDO, Spain — Artisans from Castilla La Mancha and other regions of Spain exhibited their talent with handmade products at the Castilla La Mancha Craft Fair. The annual crafts festival took place in Toledo. In addition to Spanish regional handicrafts, countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Portugal, and France also displayed their handmade products. The 40-year-old craft fair saw more than 140 artisans from various countries this year.
Each craftsman had space where, apart from showcasing products, some demonstrated how they made their creations. According to the Minister of Economy, Business and Employment, Patricia Franco, the six-day-long fair closed with more than 104,700 visitors.
The Artesanía de España collects the legacy of different civilizations over centuries. This involves exchanging diverse cultural experiences and products, thanks to the rich production of goods since prehistoric times in the Iberian Peninsula. Each of the regions that make up Spain preserves its own varied artisan culture shared between generations over time. This gave rise to a wide variety of globally recognized trades and products in the country.
Works in pottery, ceramics, glass, wood, leather, basketry, fabrics, lace, and different metals are highlighted. The work of Spanish artisans is voluntarily certified in different regions, authenticating their production. Every year, a wide range of these regional handmade products go on display at the annual craft fair in Toledo.
All photographs by Xochilth Rodríguez.
