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Clay Pottery, A Living Tradition

The village of Pomaire just 50 km west of Santiago offers visitors a chance to experience a small place that is big on tradition. The coffee-colored clay that its inhabitants call greda has been a part of their lifestyle since long before Pomaire was founded in 1771.

Clay pots, plates, figurines and even Sponge Bob Square Pants replicas crowd the stalls of the adobe mansions that open their doors to the visitors who flock here each weekend. The village's main arteries, San Antonio and Roberto Bravo, are replete with house-boutiques that are also used as workshops by the artisans who create their pieces on worn potter's wheels. The village is a true feast for your camera.

The tradition of making greda products comes from the Diaguita Indians, the pre-Colombian civilization that settled in this area. It was later perfected by the Inca, who made important technical improvements. Modern visitors can choose from pieces that invoke this dual heritage or the typical clay piggy figurine.

Pomaire's restaurants are just as famous as its pottery. Chilean casseroles, rolled meat and hams are among the highlights, but don't leave without sampling the "half kilo empanada". This savory pie filled with meat, onions, egg and raisins made the 1995 Guinness Book of Records as the world's largest empanada.

Featured Destinations

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Santa Cruz

Tours you can do

Getting There By Bus From Terminal San Borja in Santiago, Estación Central Metro Station. By Car Take the Autopista del Sol to km 50, then turn right at the Pomaire toll.