Centro de Interpretación de Las Loceras

“Did they really use goat horns in the old days?” a woman whispered, her eyes wide with curiosity, as she examined a peculiar clay object. We are standing before the Centro de Interpretación de Las Loceras. This museum is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to the ancient craft of pottery, a craft that has been passed down for generations in El Cercado, La Gomera. Stepping inside, we are transported back in time. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and the rhythmic clatter of tools echoes through the halls. The Centro de Interpretación de Las Loceras showcases the legacy of the “Loceras de El Cercado.” These women, the guardians of this age-old tradition, have kept the art of hand-crafted pottery alive. Their methods are simple, almost primal, using techniques passed down from their ancestors, the original inhabitants of La Gomera. Imagine them, their hands shaping clay into beautiful, functional objects. Pots, basins, braziers, jugs – each piece is a testament to their skill and artistry. One of the most unique pieces you’ll see here is the “carabucho,” a double-winged vessel used for milking goats. This intricate design, unheard of elsewhere, is a testament to the ingenuity of these women and their deep connection to their craft.