Santa Cruz : Traditional Utensils and Ornaments | Utensilios y adornos tradicionales

By Red Uno; Alejandra Hinojosa, Eju.tv:

Traditional Utensils and Ornaments of Santa Cruz: What They Are and Their Uses

Discover the 17 artifacts that, despite the passage of time, still remain relevant in honoring Cruceño culture.

In September, civic pride fills the hearts of all Cruceños, who seek to exalt the culture of Santa Cruz. Schools and their folkloric dance groups prepare their finest attire to celebrate the 214th anniversary of the libertarian cry.

The most representative traditional items and decorations from Santa Cruz hold great significance for the celebrations on September 24. This is why craft shops are preparing to offer the best of Cruceño identity, with prices ranging from Bs 5 to Bs 100, depending on the item.

In the craft shop located in the La Ramada market, between Isabel La Católica and Sutó streets, these are the best-selling items:

1. The Jasayé: it was used by the camba to carry his snack to the fields.

2. The Tinaja: made of palm, it was used to store vegetables, while the clay version was used to store chicha.

3. The Baquitú: or blower used to stoke the fire and also served as a fan.

4. The Tutuma: served as a cup for drinking chicha and somó, and is still used in some provinces.

5. The Panacú: a type of backpack used to carry yuca or firewood.

6. The Quiboro: a container used to store grains like corn or beans.

7. The Estera: used as a bed, people would spread it on the ground, and it is still used during hot weather.

8. The Carretón: used to transport firewood and food.

9. The Urupé: a type of strainer, used to sift flour and also to place rice bread and traditional baked goods.

10. Saó Hat: handmade from palm leaves, used by men to protect themselves from the sun, especially when going to work in the chaco.

11. The Green Scarf: an accessory of the camba attire, tied around the neck.

12. The Enchoque: one of the traditional games of Santa Cruz, made of wood.

13. The Slingshot: made of wood and elastic, used as a weapon that the camba took to the chaco to scare away parrots that ate the corn.

14. The Spinning Top: made of wood with a metal tip, spun and thrown. The camba demonstrated his skill, and the winner was the one who could keep the top spinning the longest.

15. The Mole: made from scraps of fabric and colorful feathers. The game consisted of throwing the mole so that it landed upright to win.

16. The Tipoy: worn by cambitas as a dress for dancing the chobena and taquirari.

17. The Corn Husk Dolls: now used only as decorations, the traditional dolls made from corn husks were toys for children.

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