When a person visits San Salvador, like every tourist, his activities will include beach vacations, surfing, hiking, cycling, visiting historic sites, archaeological remains and visiting famous tourist attractions. But if he wants to get the real essence of life in San Salvador, he should explore the lesser known treasures of San Salvador. El Salvador is rural country and these rural areas have distinguished, lesser known traditions, culture and art.
Most of these areas are facing elevated problems of poverty, unemployment and lack of development.
One of these rural areas near San Salvador is the municipality of Guatajiagua. The term Guatajigua originates from Lencan culture which means ‘Valley of the tobacco Civilization’. This municipal area is located 180 km from San Salvador and is in the eastern department of Morazán. It is home to the pre-Hispanic Lencan people. Though most of the people here are farmers, this area has gained fame for something completely different - its low fire black pottery.
The black pottery also known as Lencan pottery is a mark of the ethnic culture of the Lenca people. This pottery is made out of black clay and ceramic made out of black clay. The pieces of pottery are shaped by men and women of Guatajiagua in kilns made from white clay. They make traditional clay pots, bowls, plates, vases and also some designs to suit the tastes of modern visitors. The distinguishable feature about this artistic piece of work is its natural black color. The clay pots are given the natural black color by washing it with the seeds of the Nacazcol tree. The earnings from the sale of pottery are the prime source of income for the people of this area.
Many people visiting to San Salvador come to Guatajiagua to shop for this famous handmade local pottery from various house workshops. Guatajiagua also has a famous sculptor named Sarbelio Garcia who has won the International Art Prize in Spain in 2001. His collection of clay figures is a pure reflection of Salvadoran folk art. Visitors can also visit in workshop here to see and purchase works of this international artist.
The black pottery of Guatajiagua is sold throughout the country of El Salvador in the handicrafts markets and art galleries. The immense distance between the maker and market is being covered as the art of Guatajiagua has gained attention from artisan markets all over the world. This attention is also helping the development of peaceful, sleepy yet poor town.
Art lovers and tourists who come to San Salvador for a holiday should not miss the chance of visiting Guatajiagua and witness this ethnic, unique tradition taking a contemporary look. Once a person comes here, he will not be able to resist the temptation of buying these creative handicrafts to adorn their homes and workplaces.
