Sugar skulls at a Morelia marketplace (photo by kwbill courtesy of Flickr)

The artistry of Mexico is often very apparent regardless of where you go in the world. The bright colors and pageantry of Mexican life lives through the arts and crafts of this lively culture. The work of Mexican artisans has traveled throughout the world and is highly coveted by many. Morelia is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the grandeur and beauty of Mexico’s artistry.

The Morelia marketplace is a popular, tourist-friendly adventure offering amazing craft finds including handmade works like the sugar skull-Calaveras above.

Morelia Crafts Market (photo by Jeff K courtesy of Flickr)

The Morelia market place is located in the regal ex-Convent of San Fransisco. Local artisans offer their beautifully hand made goods at amazing prices. If you are able to, talking with the artisans opens a window into the pride and history of locals and the importance of craftsmanship to the people of Mexico.

Temple of San Fransisco (photo by 21st Century Catholic courtesy of Flickr)

The ex-convent itself is an amazing structure and one of the oldest religious buildings in Morelia. The Spanish Renaissance architectural plateresque design is evident while the Moorish windows offer an elegance that is truly worthy of photographing.

Below, a local Morelia artisan tends to the intricate design and details of embroidery work outside the museum. Handed down from generation to generation, it is often difficult to trace how far back the craftsmanship have traveled through the ages. One thing is known, however, the pride in their skills and workmanship is brilliantly apparent in the crafts sold in Morelia.

Local Morelia artisan (photo by Phillip Bouchard courtesy of Flickr)