Puebla art overflows with indigenous handicrafts: Amozoc’s silverwork; Atlixco’s polychromatic ceramics and candles; Ciudad Serdán’s rustic furniture; Cuauhtinchan’s carved marble objects or Cuetzalan’s fabrics… you can find it all in the city of Puebla. 

Talavera is one of the most sought-after ceramic products both in Mexico and internationally, and its history goes back four centuries: When the Dominicans came to New Spain they brought talavera earthenware, which was then imitated by the local population. The artisans in Puebla perfected their technique, and in 1580 the city became the main producer of this type of ceramic. 

The manufacturing of amate paper – in use since pre-Hispanic times to produce codexes, as well as for rituals and garments of clothing – is still a thriving cottage industry among the local population of San Pablito in the municipality of Pahuatlán. This paper technique is used by shamans and witchdoctors who use it to protect or harm believers in their powers; if the figures are created in white, the spirits are said to be good; but if the figures are black, then they are supposedly demonic and evil. 

Puebla’s religious art deserves a special mention, with its religious images and buildings created between the 16th and 19th century possessing great historical value for Mexico.