❖ Collect a Pot
from Mata Ortiz
This artists’ colony has become known for its handicrafts inspired by the region made up of northern Mexico and the southwestern U.S., and especially for employing the techniques originally used to create this pottery: wood, cow manure, vegetable paints, and local minerals.
Mata Ortiz is a type of pottery that is drawn from the traditional pottery found in northwestern Mexico and the southwestern U.S.
The pottery is distinctive for the traditional technique used to produce these vessels, employing wood, cow dung, vegetable paints, and local minerals. The technique was re-discovered and developed by master potter Juan Quezada, who received the National Arts and Sciences Prize. A visit to his gallery reveals the wide variety of pieces created by the many artisans from Mata who have learned the technique.
There are pots and vessels for all budgets.
❖ Marvel at Cuarenta Casas
Archeological Site
Also known as “las casas de los Acantilados” (“cliff dwellings”), this is an archeological site set inside Cueva de la Ventana (“Window Cave”). The pre-Hispanic complex has 15 adobe dwellings from the 8th century.
Adobe and wood were used to build throughout the canyons of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. In recent years, researchers with the INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History) have located more than 180 similar sites.
❖ Dig Into Burritos
One of the local dishes that you have to try in Casas Grandes are the famous burritos. The greatest hits include the ones made with colorado chili peppers, pasado chili peppers, and of course, beans and cheese, all wrapped up in homemade flour tortillas.
Try Dago’s, El Burrotote, and Menchy’s Burros y Más.