Sawdust Carpet Workshop

Sawdust Carpet Workshop

Starting from:

$55

per person
Duration: 4 hours
Languages: English / Spanish
Starts at: Ermita de Santa Lucía
Inclusions:
  • Tour Guide
  • Workshop Equipment and Materials
  • Lunch
  • Water
  • Taxes

Tour Overview

Come to our captivating workshop that takes you deep into the traditions of the Easter Festival in Antigua. Discover the awe-inspiring alfombras (sawdust carpets), intricate long rugs crafted from vibrant flowers, colored sawdust, fragrant pine needles, and even artfully arranged fruits and vegetables. These beautiful carpets transform the streets of Antigua into a mesmerizing tapestry during Semana Santa (Holy Week), a tradition with Deep cultural and spiritual significance.

During this four-hour immersive experience, you’ll not only learn about the rich history of the alfombras, which span centuries, but you’ll also become part of the tradition. Join hands with your local friends who will guide you through the intricate process of creating your own alfombra, blending cultural insights with hands-on artistic expression. This is a unique opportunity to experience the profound meaning behind these sacred Works of art, which earned the prestigious title of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in November 2023.

As you get immersed in the creative process, you’ll explore the connection between these masterpieces and their spiritual significance, each carpet tells a story that has been passed down through generations. The workshop Will be more than just creating art, it’s a respectful offering that intertwines history and faith of the local community. After completing your alfombra, we´ll share a traditional Guatemalan lunch, where you’ll discover the rich flavors of two iconic dishes, “Estofado” (a Savory stew) and “Pescado Seco” (dried fish)

This cultural odyssey is a captivating fusion of history, tradition, and hands-on creativity that will leave you enlightened and artistically inspired. You’ll not only learn the history behind Semana Santa but also feel its living presence through the creation of your own alfombra and the shared experience with the local community as you become part of the living Easter Festival in Antigua.


Itinerary

Meeting Point

Ermita Santa Lucía

We will meet at the entrance of Ermita Santa Lucía at 01:00 PM, this charming place is full of cultural significance, which serves as our base for the workshop. From here, we will dive into the process of crafting an alfombra fot the Procession of Jesus de Nazareno.

Introduction and Historical Background

Ermita Santa Lucía

Our knowledgeable team will guide you through the rich cultural significance of alfombras of alfombras in Semana Santa. You'll learn about the evolution of this tradition, the symbolism behind the colors and patterns used, and what makes integral this artistic practice to the spiritual journey during Holy Week.

Hands-On

Ermita Santa Lucía

Roll up your sleeves and dive into the hands-on creation of your own alfombra. You'll witness the magic unfold as you manipulate flowers, colored sawdust, pine needles, and other materials, helping to bring the collective masterpiece to life. This collaborative effort will be an exciting, dynamic experience of camaraderie, where we unite our creativity and effort to craft something beautiful. Let the shared enthusiasm and commitment guide us as we transform our vision into a stunning reality within this limited timeframe.

Lunch Time

Ermita Santa Lucía

After the workshop, we’ll take a break and enjoy a traditional Guatemalan lunch. Savor the rich flavors of Estofado, a savory stew slow-cooked with aromatic spices, and Pescado Seco, dried fish that offers a distinct taste of Guatemala’s coastal cuisine. This meal will give you a chance to rest, reflect on the process, and prepare for the next part of the journey.

Procession

Ermita Santa Lucía

After lunch, we’ll gather to witness the solemn Procession of Jesus de Nazareno, one of the central and deeply symbolic figure of Semana Santa. As we stand in awe of the procession, the sounds of prayers and the rhythm of the procession create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. It’s a moment to reflect on the religious and cultural significance that unfolds before you.

Discover the Vigils

San Francisco El Alto

Our journey continues with a visit to San Francisco El Alto, where we’ll witness the vigils, a serene and contemplative space. Here, flickering candles and solemn rituals enhance the spiritual essence of Semana Santa, creating a quiet contrast to the vibrant energy of earlier festivities. It’s a moment of tranquility and reflection.

Thank You and Farewell

Main Square

We'll conclude cherishing the memories, the connections made and the profund experiences shared as we conclude our journey through the heart of this enchanting city. As we wrap up, we'd like to express our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for being a part of this cultural odyssey, for your creativity, and for contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our alfombra workshop.
Safe travels, and until we meet again, thank you and see you soon!

What You’ll Experience

  • Engage in a hands-on workshop where you’ll craft a traditional sawdust carpet, blending art with cultural heritage.
  • Understand the centuries-old tradition of alfombras and their role in Semana Santa, guided by local artisans.
  • Savor two traditional dishes “Estofado” and “Pescado Seco” that reflect the rich flavors of Guatemala.
  • Stand in awe of the solemn procession, a central event of the Holy Week celebrations in Antigua.
  • Enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection during the vigils at San Francisco El Alto, illuminated by candlelight and steeped in tradition.

Key Details

4 hours
English / Spanish
  • Tour Guide
  • Workshop Equipment and Materials
  • Lunch
  • Water
  • Taxes
  • Holy Week Season
  • Easter Week
  • Sawdost Carpet
  • Workshop
  • Family Activity