Native people living near Lake Titicaca still work in their fields and maintain thousands of years' worth of customs since they depend on their land for totora and wool. Visitors can buy many unique and traditional souvenirs at Lake Titicaca. Let's have a look at the textiles and crafts that have helped Titicaca become the cultural hub of southern Peru.
Taquile Island is famous for its traditional handicrafts. These include hand-woven fabrics, caps, and belts. Visitors may buy handicrafts directly from local artists on the island. The textile art of this island was recognized as a cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2005. As soon as you get there, you’ll see how beautiful Taquileños clothing is. They wear the same garments that they made. For example, men usually dress using black and white, while women wear red and black.
Every male on the island wears the Andean hat called “chullo”. This hat is made of llama or alpaca wool and is intricately knitted. The chullos reveal marital status or current mood. From an early age, parents instill in their children the duty of learning procedures. Children enjoy spinning wheels at age four. They are learning to spin and prepare wool for adults.
Males and females study the elaboration techniques. But, the males focus on clothing items like coats, sweaters, and chullos. The females are focused on weaving items like blankets and little bags, known as chuspas. Another component of the procedure of Taquile textiles is the vivid colors. Wool and pigmentation have a good bond that enhances color quality and lengthens the textile life.
Tiny animals, such as mussels or the cochineal are used to produce a broad range of vibrant hues. You will see how Taquileños make beautiful art. You will also collaborate with the people who buy these unique pieces in Taquile's little open-air market.
The Uros Islands are known for their traditional handicrafts. These include reed boats and woven baskets. The textile techniques of this island are similar to Taquile. The Uros people rely on totora like the Taquileños, they make these reeds grow along Lake Titicaca's shoreline.
We can say that Uro people depend on totora to make their own life. Using totora, they built their houses and produced clothing, textiles, and other crafts. Just like Taquile, in Uros, you can find open-air markets or people offering their products. Every handmade item in Taquile and the Uros Islands has a history that is unique to it.
Each piece is from the decorated pottery to the colorful handwoven clothing. They reflect the skill, passion, and love of the local artisans. By buying these goods, you support the lives of local people and the preservation of customs besides obtaining a memento of your travels.
In conclusion, shopping at Lake Titicaca is a special chance to explore Andean culture. You can bring home unique artwork and handicrafts. It's an encounter that improves the experience, allowing guests to engage with the past and the area's inhabitants. Every instant offers a glimpse into the rich past and customs of this special place on Earth.
Come experience the class and authenticity of Lake Titicaca shopping. We at Viagens Machu Picchu give you the chance to find the true essence of Lake Titicaca. Get in touch with us to start your journey now!
