Ticul Pottery and Ceramics

The large pueblo of Ticul is located along the Puuc Route, 60 miles south of Merida. In Ticul (tee-cool) you will find a town that boasts an unusual combination of locally produced products – pottery and shoes! In this article we will talk about the wonderful selection of pottery and ceramics, but when you visit Ticul, do take note that right across the street from the pottery stores, you can also pick up a pair of cute sandals or shoes.

As you drive in the Puuc region take note that in these hills there are great clay mines that the local creators use to produce their pieces. There are three places we recommend for shopping for good quality pots, statuettes and other items made from the local clay.

At Arte Maya you will find museum and collection quality Mayan pieces that include delicate replicas of Mayan gods, replicas of Jaina figurines, bowls and urns. The owner, Señora Lourdes is a gifted artisan with a unique showroom that includes an outdoor display of her huge pieces, a large workshop school with pieces along the walls and a smaller gallery where her collection-quality pieces are located. Lourdes works in ceramics, alabaster, stone and jade. The prices of her unique pieces range from $20 pesos to $50,000 pesos ($2 USD to $5000 USD approximately). When you see the pieces you will understand the prices. She producedes fine, delicate work. Approaching Ticul from Muna, Arte Maya is the first showroom on the left-hand side of the road.

Above: A replica of a Mayan incense burner at Arte Maya.

Further down the main road, on the left hand side of the road you will come to Ratinxul. This store is the place to buy the huge pots and planters that you see in local Merida homes and gardens. Stroll the shop, take note of their pieces and wander towards the back where you will see the crafters and large oven where the pieces are baked using firewood. If one of the large pieces suits your fancy, don't worry. The store is well versed in sending pottery worldwide. They also have smaller more whimsical pieces (frogs, seashells, starfish, etc.) that will fit right in your suitcase.

And last but definitely not least, further on this same road, and once again, on the left hand side of the road, you will come to Arte y Decoracion Maya owned by the master artisan Andres Mena.

Master Andres offers a wonderful conglomeration of pieces. His store is a showroom where you will enjoy strolling and looking at each piece. He has large pots and planters, huge stellae and replicas of Mayan gods, smaller replica pieces, Mayan incense holders, masks, urns, large swan planters, wall sconces and whimsical pieces. You will also find a showcase with interesting jewelry. Continue your stroll out back to see the molds, wood burning ovens and artisans hard at work.

Ticul, with all the clay and pottery, is a bit dusty. All the above mentioned shops have open air facades and you will find many of the pieces are also dusty. Don’t let this fool you – look past the dust and notice the beauty of each piece. And do consider buying a piece or two or more! All of these places will do a good job wrapping the pieces you choose. They are wonderful conversation pieces or gifts, and a pleasure to have in your home.

If you are interested in clay masks of gods, you will find unique and beautiful masks as well at Arte Maya and Arte y Decoracion Maya.

For more about Ticul, please visit our Ticul page. Ticul is one of the largest towns south of Merida. To reach Ticul, the fastest way is to drive towards Uxmal and then follow the signs to Ticul.

To read in Spanish click here