Casa Queretana de las Artesanias

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a museum and cultural center dedicated to promoting Mexican crafts. It is located in the heart of Querétaro, Mexico, in a beautiful colonial building that has been carefully restored. The museum houses a vast collection of Mexican crafts, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and wood carvings. It also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and performances that celebrate Mexican culture.

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free.

A Treasure Trove of Mexican Crafts

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias has a long and rich history. It was founded in 1932 by a group of Mexican artists and artisans who were dedicated to preserving and promoting Mexican crafts. The museum was originally housed in a small building in the Centro Histórico de Querétaro, but in 1948 it was moved to its current location, a larger building that was once a convent.

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias represents the different types of Mexican crafts, including pottery, textiles, metalwork, and wood carving. The museum has a collection of over 10,000 pieces of Mexican crafts, many of which are on display in the museum's permanent collection. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of work by Mexican artisans.

Some of the most famous Mexican artisans who have exhibited their work at the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias include:

Dolores Olmedo - a painter and collector of Mexican folk art
Frida Kahlo - a painter and activist
Diego Rivera - a muralist
Rufino Tamayo - a painter and sculptor

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is an important institution in the promotion of Mexican crafts. The museum provides a platform for Mexican artisans to showcase their work and to sell their products. The museum also educates the public about the importance of Mexican crafts and the role that they play in Mexican culture.

Immerse Yourself in Mexican Culture

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is not just a museum; it is also a cultural center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Mexican culture and to experience the vibrant traditions of this country.

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias regularly hosts Mexican dance performances, which showcase the country's rich dance traditions. These performances are often accompanied by live music, and they provide visitors with a glimpse into the folkloric dances of Mexico.

In addition to dance performances, the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias also hosts musical performances. These performances feature a variety of Mexican musical genres, from traditional mariachi music to contemporary Mexican pop music.

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias also hosts art exhibitions, which showcase the work of both established and emerging Mexican artists. These exhibitions provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in Mexican art and to see the work of some of the country's most talented artists.

Shop for Unique Souvenirs

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a shopper's paradise, with a wide variety of souvenirs available for purchase. You can find everything from traditional Mexican handicrafts to contemporary Mexican art. Some of the most popular souvenirs include pottery, textiles, jewelry, and leather goods. Prices for souvenirs vary depending on the type of item and the artist. You can find something to fit every budget, from small, inexpensive trinkets to large, expensive works of art.

If you are looking for a truly unique souvenir, be sure to check out the work of the local artisans who exhibit their work at the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias. These artisans use traditional techniques to create beautiful and unique pieces of art that are sure to be treasured for years to come.

Learn About Mexican Craftsmanship

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about Mexican craftsmanship first-hand. The museum offers a variety of workshops, demonstrations, classes, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional arts of Mexico.

The workshops are led by skilled artisans who teach visitors how to create their own Mexican crafts. Visitors can learn how to weave textiles, make pottery, or create intricate silver jewelry. The demonstrations allow visitors to watch skilled artisans at work as they create beautiful pieces of art. The classes provide visitors with a more in-depth understanding of Mexican art and culture. Visitors can learn about the history of Mexican crafts, the different techniques used to create them, and the symbolism behind the designs. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the different types of Mexican crafts and learn about the processes involved in creating them.

Admire the Architecture

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is housed in a beautiful colonial building that is a work of art in itself. The building was constructed in the 18th century and features a mix of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles. The facade of the building is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, and the interior is just as impressive. The courtyard of the building is a particularly beautiful space, with a fountain, benches, and lush plants.

The building that houses the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias was originally built as a convent for the Capuchin nuns. The nuns lived in the convent for over 200 years, and during that time they added many of the beautiful features that are still visible today. The convent was closed in the 19th century, and the building was used for a variety of purposes before it was converted into a museum in the 1980s.

The renovation of the building was a major undertaking, and it took several years to complete. The goal of the renovation was to restore the building to its original condition, and the results are stunning. The building now looks much as it did when it was first built, and it is a beautiful example of colonial architecture.

Take a Guided Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mexican crafts and culture with a guided tour of the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias. These informative and engaging tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides who will lead you through the museum's diverse exhibits, shedding light on the history, techniques, and significance of the various crafts.

Duration and Cost

Guided tours typically last for about an hour and are available at a nominal fee. Group discounts may be available for larger parties.

What's Included

During the tour, you'll visit the museum's permanent and temporary exhibits, where you'll have the opportunity to admire a wide range of Mexican crafts, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more. Your guide will provide insightful commentary on the cultural and historical context of the crafts and answer any questions you may have.

Reservations

To ensure a spot on a guided tour, it's recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist season. You can book your tour online or by phone.

Attend a Special Event

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events are a great way to experience Mexican culture and traditions firsthand. Some of the most popular events include:

Festivals: The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Festival de la Muerte (Day of the Dead Festival) and the Festival de la Primavera (Spring Festival). These festivals feature traditional Mexican music, dance, food, and crafts.
Markets: The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias also hosts several markets throughout the year. These markets are a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. You can find everything from traditional Mexican handicrafts to contemporary Mexican art.
Exhibitions: The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase the work of Mexican artists and artisans. You can see everything from paintings and sculptures to textiles and pottery.
Performances: The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias also hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. These performances include Mexican dance performances, musical performances, and theater performances.

Attending a special event at the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a great way to experience Mexican culture and traditions firsthand. Be sure to check the museum's website or social media pages for a list of upcoming events.

Relax in the Courtyard

In the heart of the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias, a tranquil oasis awaits weary souls. Step into the picturesque courtyard, where time seems to slow as you bask in the serenity of this hidden gem. The centerpiece of the courtyard is an ornate fountain, its gentle murmur creating a soothing ambiance that washes away the stresses of the outside world.

Comfortable benches are thoughtfully placed, inviting you to linger and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Let your gaze wander over the lush greenery that adorns the courtyard, with vibrant plants and flowers adding a splash of color to the colonial surroundings. The courtyard provides a welcome respite, a sanctuary where you can rejuvenate your senses and gather your thoughts before continuing your exploration of the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias.

Whether you seek solitude for contemplation or simply a moment of tranquility amidst your museum journey, the courtyard offers a serene haven that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Enjoy a Coffee or Snack

After a long day of exploring the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias, you can relax and enjoy a coffee or snack at the café. The café is located in the courtyard of the museum and offers a variety of beverages and snacks. The menu includes coffee, tea, juice, pastries, and sandwiches. The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is relaxed. The café is a great place to take a break and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

If you are looking for a more substantial meal, there are several restaurants located nearby. The Centro Histórico de Querétaro is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare.

Visit the Nearby Attractions

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is located in the heart of the historic center of Querétaro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means that you'll be surrounded by some of the city's most beautiful colonial architecture, as well as a variety of other attractions.

Take a stroll through the Jardín Zenea, a beautiful public garden with fountains, sculptures, and flowers. Or, visit the Plaza de Armas, the city's main square, where you'll find the Querétaro Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Casa de la Corregidora.

If you're interested in learning more about Querétaro's history and culture, be sure to visit the Museo Regional de Querétaro, which has exhibits on everything from the city's pre-Hispanic past to its role in the Mexican Revolution.

And of course, no visit to Querétaro would be complete without trying some of the city's delicious food. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as enchiladas queretanas, gorditas, and nopales en penca.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias, it is important to plan ahead. The best time to visit is during the week, when the crowds are smaller. The museum is open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is free.

To get to the museum, you can take a bus or taxi to the Centro Histórico de Querétaro. The museum is located on Calle 16 de Septiembre, between 5 de Mayo and Allende. There is limited parking available near the museum, so it is best to arrive early or park in one of the nearby parking garages.

When visiting the museum, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking. It is also a good idea to bring a camera to capture all of the beautiful art and crafts on display.

Be Prepared for Crowds

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. If you are visiting the museum during these times, be prepared for crowds. Here are some tips for avoiding the crowds:

Visit the museum on a weekday.
Arrive early or late in the day.
Take advantage of the museum's free admission on Sundays.
Avoid visiting the museum during special events.

If you do find yourself in a crowd, be patient and respectful of others. Remember, everyone is there to enjoy the museum.

Take Your Time

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a large museum, so it is important to take your time. Allow at least two hours to visit the museum. The best way to experience the museum is to wander through the exhibits at your own pace. There is no need to rush, so take your time to admire the beautiful crafts and learn about the rich history of Mexican culture. You may even want to come back for a second visit to see everything that you missed the first time. The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a treasure trove of Mexican crafts, and it is worth taking the time to explore it fully.

Insider Tip:

The Casa Queretana de las Artesanias is a great place to buy souvenirs, but it is important to bargain. You can often get a better price if you are willing to haggle with the vendors. Be sure to check the prices at a few different vendors before you make a purchase.

One time, I was able to get a beautiful hand-woven rug for half the price that the vendor was originally asking. I simply smiled, thanked him for his time, and started to walk away. He immediately called me back and offered me a much lower price. I was thrilled!

So, don't be afraid to bargain when you're shopping at the Casa Queretana de las Artesanias. It's all part of the fun! Just be sure to do it respectfully and with a smile.

Casa Queretana de las Artesanias