Welcome to Tlaquepaque and Tonala, the glassware capitals of Mexico! If you love beautiful handcrafted blown glass, then these two towns are not to be missed. Located just outside of Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque and Tonala offer an authentic experience filled with Mexican culture, history, and tradition.
From walking through the beautiful street market to enjoying local cuisine at charming restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region. So sit back and let us guide you through all that Tlaquepaque and Tonala have to offer when it comes to stunning glassware.
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Where is Tlaquepaque?
Tlaquepaque is a charming town located just 5 miles southeast of Guadalajara, Mexico. The name “Tlaquepaque” means “place above clay land,” which is fitting as the town has a long history of pottery making.
Once you arrive in Tlaquepaque, you’ll see that it’s a lovely mix of colonial architecture and contemporary art galleries. It’s no surprise that Tlaquepaque is considered one of the most attractive towns in Jalisco.
One of the highlights of visiting Tlaquepaque is exploring its arts and crafts scene. You’ll find artisanal workshops showcasing traditional Mexican handicrafts such as ceramics, glass, furniture, textiles, and silver jewelry.
In addition to shopping for unique souvenirs, visitors can also enjoy fine dining experiences at some of the best restaurants around town. From authentic Mexican cuisine to international fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone in Tlaquepaque.
Whether you’re interested in shopping or just soaking up the local culture, Tlaquepaque offers something truly special!
Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts
Tlaquepaque is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, Tlaquepaque is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore traditional Mexican art.
The town’s main square, El Jardín Hidalgo, is home to numerous artisan workshops where visitors can watch skilled craftsmen create pottery, glassware, and other handicrafts right before their eyes.
One of the most popular attractions in Tlaquepaque is the Casa de las Artesanias. This vast complex houses dozens of shops selling handmade goods ranging from textiles and jewelry to wood carvings and ceramics.
Visitors can also take part in various workshops held throughout the year where they can learn how to make their pottery or try their hand at painting traditional designs on ceramic pieces.
With so much to see and do in Tlaquepaque’s arts and crafts scene, it’s no wonder that this charming town has become one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations.
Tlaquepaque Restaurants
Tlaquepaque is a paradise for food lovers, with plenty of restaurants to choose from. One of the most popular places to eat in Tlaquepaque is El Parian, which serves traditional Mexican dishes and has live mariachi music every night.
For those looking for something more upscale, Casa Luna is a great choice. The restaurant has an elegant atmosphere and offers delicious gourmet Mexican cuisine using fresh local ingredients.
If you’re in the mood for seafood, La Fonda de San Miguel is worth a visit. Their ceviche and grilled octopus are particularly good.
Another notable restaurant in Tlaquepaque is El Patio de mi Casa, which features a beautiful outdoor courtyard surrounded by lush greenery. They offer classic Mexican dishes as well as international cuisine.
With so many options available, it’s easy to see why Tlaquepaque is such a popular destination for foodies visiting Mexico.
Where is Tonala?
Located just 6 miles southeast of Guadalajara, Tonala is a small town in the state of Jalisco. Despite its size, this town is widely known for its impressive street market and rich history in blown glass production.
Tonala’s street market is one of the largest and most vibrant outdoor markets in Mexico. Here, you can find everything from handmade pottery to colorful textiles to traditional furniture. The market takes place every Thursday and Sunday, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
In addition to its bustling street market, Tonala also has a long-standing reputation as a premier destination for blown glass production. Artisans have been blowing glass here for centuries using techniques passed down through generations.
Today, you can still witness the artistry of these skilled craftsmen at various workshops throughout the town. It’s fascinating to see how they transform molten glass into intricate pieces that are both beautiful and functional.
ISEB is a registered Mexican glass exporter and we have worked with different Glass Manufacturers in Mexico, let us negotiate the best price and time for your order.
Tonala Street Market
Tonala Street Market is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Tonala, just outside of Guadalajara. The market is known for its wide variety of handmade crafts and goods, including pottery, textiles, and of course, blown glass.
Visitors to the market can expect to find vendors selling everything from traditional Talavera pottery to intricately woven rugs. One thing that sets Tonala apart from other markets in Mexico is its focus on artisanal crafts rather than mass-produced souvenirs.
The atmosphere at Tonala Street Market is lively and colorful. Visitors will be greeted by the sounds of mariachi music and the smells of street food wafting through the air. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.
If you’re planning a trip to Tonala Street Market, it’s best to go early in the day when vendors are setting up their stalls and before crowds become too overwhelming. Be prepared to haggle with vendors over prices – it’s all part of the fun!
Tonala Street Market is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mexican handicrafts or looking for an authentic cultural experience during their travels.
The History of Blown Glass in Mexico
The history of blown glass in Mexico dates back to the pre-Columbian era when indigenous people used small furnaces and clay molds to create decorative objects such as beads, figurines, and masks. When the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they brought with them their glass-blowing techniques.
During the colonial period, Mexican artisans began incorporating European designs into their work while still using traditional methods. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that Mexican blown glass gained international recognition when artists like Carlos Mérida and Frida Kahlo started incorporating it into their art.
Today, Mexico is known for its beautiful handcrafted blown glass pieces that range from delicate wine glasses to colorful vases. Each piece is carefully crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations of artisans.
Whether you’re an art collector or just looking for a special souvenir from your trip to Tlaquepaque and Tonala, exploring the history of blown glass in Mexico is not only fascinating but also gives you a deeper appreciation for these stunning works of art.
The Different Types of Blown Glass in Mexico
Mexico is known for its beautiful blown glass, which comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. One type of blown glass that’s popular in Mexico is called “recycled glass.” This type of glass is made from recycled bottles and other containers. It has a unique texture and color that makes it stand out from traditional blown glass.
Another popular type of Mexican blown glass is called “bubble glass.” As the name suggests, this type of glass features tiny air bubbles trapped inside the material. These bubbles give bubble glass an interesting texture and appearance that can’t be replicated with any other material.
And let’s not forget about margarita glasses! These iconic pieces are often colorful and adorned with intricate designs. You can find shots, vases, long glasses, small glasses, spheres for decoration, and much more.
These are just a few examples of the different types of blown glass you can find in Mexico. Each piece is unique, created by skilled artisans who take great pride in their workmanship. Whether you’re looking for something practical or decorative, there’s sure to be a piece out there that speaks to your style and personality!
Where to Buy Glassware in Tlaquepaque and Tonala
Tlaquepaque and Tonala are both known for their exquisite blown glassware. If you’re looking for unique pieces to take home as souvenirs, there’s no better place to shop than these two cities. You can also make a stop at our Shop we have blown glass balls, margarita stemware, glasses, cups, and skull shots and we can take on personalized designs and international shipping.
In Tlaquepaque, the main shopping area is on Calle Independencia, where you’ll find many shops selling hand-blown glass items of all shapes and sizes. From delicate wine glasses to colorful vases, there’s something here for everyone. Many stores also offer custom-made pieces if you’re looking for something truly special.
In Tonala, head over to the street market where local artisans set up booths every Thursday and Sunday. While prices can be negotiable at the market, it’s important to remember that each piece is unique and requires hours of skillful workmanship.
Whether you choose to shop in Tlaquepaque or Tonala (or both!), make sure to take your time browsing through all the different stores and markets. You never know what hidden gem might catch your eye!
If you’re in Jalisco for vacation don’t forget to visit Puerto Vallarta.
Conclusion | Tlaquepaque and Tonala
Tlaquepaque and Tonala are two fascinating cities in Mexico that offer visitors an opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. These towns are famous for their blown glass creations, which range from traditional Mexican designs to contemporary pieces.
While visiting these cities, you can also immerse yourself in the local arts and crafts scene by browsing through the many galleries and studios or sampling some of the delicious cuisines at one of the many restaurants.
Whether you’re a collector looking for unique pieces to add to your collection or just someone interested in experiencing authentic Mexican culture, Tlaquepaque and Tonala should be on your list of must-visit destinations. So pack your bags and head south of the border today!