The Secrets of Canarian Ceramics: Tradition from La Atalaya Revealed!

The Secrets of Canarian Ceramics: Tradition from La Atalaya Revealed!

La Atalaya de Santa Brígida in Gran Canaria is a hidden gem known for its unique pottery that is deeply rooted in the history of the Canary Islands. The village, characterized by pre-Hispanic cave dwellings, offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional ceramic production up close. The hand-painted ceramics, also known as Loza de La Atalaya, are still made using ancient techniques that are over 2,000 years old and require no potter's wheel or kiln. This craftsmanship is passed down from generation to generation, and the potters, also called “loceros” or “loceras,” are dedicated to preserving this tradition. An important starting point for those interested is the Centro Locero de La Atalaya, a pottery center that invites visitors to courses and workshops.

Working with the volcanic clay, the “Barro canario”, is an art in itself. The clay is laboriously extracted from the barrancos, the gorges around the village, and processed traditionally. The potters in La Atalaya produce not only ceramic pieces for the kitchen, but also decorative objects, using ancient techniques to create new lamps, for example. The Casa Alfar de Panchito ecomuseum displays an important collection of these crafts and offers insights into the history of pottery in the village.

A place of tradition and education

The pottery center is operated under the direction of Mercedes Cuenca. Here participants can take part in pottery courses and receive a certificate recognized by the Canarian arts and crafts association FEDAC. The Center actively promotes the art of pottery and community by establishing a pottery association with community support since 2000.

In addition, there is an exhibition on the first floor of the pottery center that highlights the history of Canarian pottery. Those interested can also visit the cave house of Francisco Rodríguez Santana, the center's founder. The Ecomuseo “Panchito” also offers pottery courses, which visitors can take part in for an entrance fee of €2.50.

Natural beauty and cultural experiences

La Atalaya de Santa Brígida is known not only for its pottery, but also for its impressive natural surroundings. Nearby is Bandama, the largest volcanic crater in Gran Canaria. From an observation deck, visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360 degree views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. The region is not only characterized by archaeological finds from the Canary Islands' indigenous people, but is also known for its lush, green character after rainfall.

For tourists and locals alike, the village is a popular destination to visit the traditional Canarian houses and buy handcrafted souvenirs reminiscent of the beautiful pottery tradition. Visitors can park for free and be transported into the artistic world of La Atalaya.