Mexican alebrijes are an outstanding part of Mexican culture and a symbol of its customs. Among all the wonders that Mexico has to offer, this handcrafted treasure stands out for its history, uniqueness and charm. These hand-carved and hand-painted figures are much more than just decorative objects.

Surely you have heard about the Mexican culture and its customs, the Mayan civilization and its pyramids, the festivities of its people and the colorful streets, but we want to go further.

For this we use our experience, our knowledge and the importance we give to immerse you in the cultural richness of each destination from the local roots with the people who live in situ.

That’s why this article will take you to explore the art, history and places that bring these creatures to life and that you can get to know during your next visit with Enjoy Travel Group’s customized activities to Mexico.

Whether to make a special gift, to scare away evil spirits, to attract luck or simply to carry with you a unique souvenir, we are going to show you the basics of this craft. And remember, no two alebrijes are alike, these beings only exist in the imagination of those who create them and in the lives of the lucky ones who decide to buy them.

What are Mexican alebrijes?

Mexican alebrijes are handcrafted figures made with the technique of cardboard, which combine physiognomic elements of various animals, both real and imaginary.

Recognized worldwide for their characteristic style, alebrijes are distinguished by their bright and vivid colors.

These figures were born thanks to the ingenuity of Pedro Linares, a cardboard artisan who had a workshop in the Merced neighborhood of Mexico City.

In 1936, during an illness that kept him unconscious in bed for several months, the artisan claimed to have had dreams in which he saw these creatures, which he called alebrijes.

Over the years, these works of art have been admired by great painters such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. And today, they are placed in Day of the Dead offerings to guide the souls of the deceased back to the world of the living.

Types of alebrijes

In order for you to better understand the art of this craft before traveling to Mexico, we have summarized the two most outstanding types of alebrijes according to their technique and meaning.

Paper mache Alebrijes

The papier-mâché technique helps to mold these figures from wire and newspaper, which are then covered with paste and papier-mâché to give them shape and volume.

The final details, such as eyes, wings or claws, are carefully placed before covering the figure with a coat of white paint. The finishing touch comes with the colors and patterns that are skillfully applied to make each alebrije a unique and colorful work of art.

From red, blue and yellow to green, orange and purple, the range of shades is wide and subject only to the imagination of the artist.

Carved wood Alebrijes

The carved wooden alebrijes are typical of the Zapotec communities in the state of Oaxaca. Carved from copal wood, these figures come to life through the ingenuity and skills of the artisans.

The process begins with the selection of the wood and its hand carving with machetes and gouges, defining the shape and details of the sculpture.

The wood is then dried in the sun for seasoning and preparation. It is dipped in special liquids to protect it from insects and sanded to soften it.

After weeks and even months of work, the figure is ready for painting, which is applied with delicacy and precision, using acrylic paints and maguey thorns for the finer details.

What is the significance of alebrijes in Mexican culture?

Mexican alebrijes are a reflection of Mexico’s imagination and rich tradition of craftsmanship. Giving them as a gift is an act associated with warding off evil spirits in homes and attracting good luck.

If you are planning to travel to the country, you cannot miss the Alebrijes Parade in Mexico City, an event that celebrates the magic of these crafts since 2007, in collaboration with the local government and other institutions.

With our local specialists in Mexico, you will have the opportunity to explore the most emblematic places where these figures are made, immersing yourself in the history and art, and living the magic behind each one of them.

Where in Mexico are alebrijes most popular?

Traveling to Mexico is an adventure that awakens the senses and feeds the soul of art and culture lovers, and for those looking to explore the most authentic corners of the craft, Mexican alebrijes are a must on your itinerary.

If you decide to organize your trip with our local experts, these handicrafts will be included in our proposals.

These are the key places where the alebrijes take shape and color.

Mexico City

The Mexican capital is an outstanding place to discover the magic of the alebrijes, especially during the commemorative parade that takes place in its streets.

It exhibits monumental alebrijes, made with traditional techniques and adorned with colors and designs.

The Anahuacalli Museum in the capital is a mandatory stop to see Pedro Linares’ collection.

Oaxaca

In the state of Oaxaca, the magic of the alebrijes comes to life in various towns and communities dedicated to this artisan tradition.

San Martin Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola

These two towns are recognized for being the most outstanding alebrijes production centers in Oaxaca. The families of artisans are dedicated to the carving of figures in copal wood, using ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation.

Each piece is unique and reflects the creativity of the artisans, combining traditional elements with contemporary touches.

Union Tejalapam

This is another community where you can find workshops and families dedicated to the elaboration of alebrijes.

Here, artisans work with passion to create figures that represent the cultural richness and artisan tradition of Oaxaca. In some regions of the state, artisans use natural pigments such as cochineal, huitlacoche and bicarbonate to obtain a wide range of striking colors in the decoration of the alebrijes.

At Enjoy Travel Group, we know that these places give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and transcendental meaning of Mexican alebrijes.

Every village, every street and every parade tells a story of creativity, tradition and passion for popular art.

If you are interested in including these crafts in your next trip, contact us. We assure you it will be an unforgettable experience.