A Colorful Easter Tradition

The people of Antigua, Guatemala celebrate Easter by lining their cobblestone roads with vibrant outdoor carpets (Alfrombras). The purpose of these carpets, besides being festive, is to be used as a walkway for the Semana Santa processions during Easter weekend. As the locals proceed with heavily carved religious statues down the street toward the churches, the flower carpets quickly disappear.

These rugs are made from flowers, colored saw dust, fruits, vegetables & sand & are created by extended families in front of their homes or business’ the week before Good Friday. Some carpets can reach a mile long depicting scenes that are important & specific to the artists who make them. After the Semana Santa processions are over & the carpets are swept away locals and visitors are reminded of the meaning of Easter, “life, death & life again.”

Happy Easter from team PAO!

#rugsasart #rugsandflowers