Alighting from our transport after the journey from the town of Lorica, once an enclave and arrival point for Lebanese migrants to Colombia, we were greeted by smiling faces and eager artisans from the Zenu indigenous community in Tuchin.
Tuchin is the home of the sombrero vueltiao, a national symbol for Colombia, but so much more. This finely woven hat made from canaflecha is an artefact that binds the community together, unites a country and is known the world over.
Practiced fingers flicked continuously, weaving the braids that will become different parts of a hat. An old Singer sewing machine clacked nearby as children looked on curiously at the visitors to their homes who were enthralled by the masterful artistry of this ancient process.
