Ecuador’s heritage hat

A fine hat that intertwines with ancestral art is the pride of all Ecuadorians. The ‘toquilla’ straw hat is a symbol of national identity and is recognized worldwide.

This December 5 marks the tenth anniversary of the proclamation of the traditional weaving of the toquilla straw hat as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Our skillful artisans turn the natural fiber into hats of sublime beauty whose elaboration is a complex and laborious art. The straw is divided into strands for weaving, the finest of which will become high-quality hats.

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Each hat is 100% handmade by the ‘toquilleras’, who make a living for their families with this delicate work. Their art is admired for being a representation of their identity and an example of our cultural heritage, which we must preserve. Their knowledge and techniques are shared to keep this tradition of hat-making alive.

It is important to pay tribute to all those who keep our intangible heritage alive. Therefore, the City Hall of Cuenca and its Department of Culture invite you to the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the proclamation as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The event will be held at the ‘Museo Municipal de la Paja Toquilla y el Sombrero’, where new exhibition halls will also be opened.

Location: Rafael María Arízaga 7-95 y Luis Cordero
Date: Monday, December 5, 2022
Time: 7 PM