Handicrafts in Moya can be divided into two different types: those that are still carried out today and those that have died out over time, but which were extremely important in the past. Artisans in the latter category include:

•  hatters, whose models included the typical Canary-style hat for men known as “cachorro”;

•  saddlers, who made bags and other receptacles to enable donkeys, mules and horses to carry large quantities of merchandise along the intricate island bridle paths;

•  blacksmiths, who made horseshoes and implements mainly for draught animals, and

•  braziers, who made artefacts out of brass, such as watering cans, lanterns and sulphur sprayers, as well as toys.

Carpentry, cabinet making, cage making, basket weaving and embroidery are all still carried out today in the municipality by reputed craftsmen and women who ensure that the legacy of these traditions does not disappear.

Handicraft activities are widespread among the different districts of Moya, such as Cabo Verde and Fontanales, and are not limited to the old town.

These crafts and those who practise them represent a valuable ethnographical part of our heritage and it is therefore important to ensure their continued survival.

Cabinet making

Basketwork

Embroidery