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Panama Hat Making

Do you want to take home an ultimate souvenir from a holiday to Ecuador? Well then look no further than an authentic panama hat. Let us help you plan your holiday to Ecuador and experience what it has to offer.

The art of weaving a panama hat is a significant cultural heritage of Ecuador and was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists in 2012. Made from weaving the leaves of the caludovica palmata plant, panama hat making is a Cuencan tradition and the name itself derives from the popularity of where the hats were sold.

The history of the panama hat can be traced back to the Incan civilisation, who were the first to weave the hats. The hats made its way to America by the 18th century and it’s popularity has continued since. In 1898, during the American-Spanish war, over 50,000 “sombreros de papa toquilla” were given to troops.

Crafted by hand, the process of making a panama hat takes a lot of time and skill, varying from taking several days to a few months! A true craft to have, some master weavers are known to only make a few a year.

For the highest quality of panama hats, then head to Montecristi. Home to master weavers of the panama hat, visitors can purchase one of the softest and luxurious panama hats in all of Ecuador. These hats are very pliable and the quality is reflected in its ability to be folded up, yet won’t lose their shape. For a prized gift from Ecuador, then why not treat yourself to a panama hat from Montecristi?

To find out more about panama hat making and a holiday to Ecuador, then simply fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will be glad to help you plan it!

Panama Hat Making

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