Meet the Lace Makers of Pontal da Barra and Join a Filé Craft Workshop
Engaging with the lace makers is an immersion into the soul of Alagoas, offering a chance to experience firsthand the history, talent, and resilience of these artisans.
Handicrafts are a cornerstone of Alagoas’ culture, embodying the traditions and stories that shape its people. In Maceió, the Pontal da Barra neighborhood is the vibrant hub of lace making, where talented women uphold a legacy passed down through generations. The streets are filled with colorful ateliers and shops showcasing unique filé lace creations. Each piece reflects the love and dedication of artisans who continue to preserve this tradition.
Recognized as a Cultural Heritage of Alagoas, filé embroidery is the highlight of the state’s handicrafts. This intricate technique, rooted in Portuguese colonial times, has captivated locals and visitors alike. Beyond taking home a handcrafted filé product, you can participate in a transformative workshop with the lace makers of Pontal da Barra, creating your own piece and experiencing Alagoan culture in a truly authentic way. Ready to dive in?
FILÉ LACE IN PONTAL DA BARRA
The experience begins around 4 PM with a visit to the Modarte Cultural Institute, which welcomes visitors eager to learn about the traditional filé craft. This space not only preserves the filé technique but also fosters cultural exchange. Here, you’ll discover the intricate creation process and the vital role this art plays in the local community.
Upon arriving at the atelier, you’ll be greeted with an invitation to delve deeper into the filé craft. The lace makers will introduce you to the tools and materials used, such as threads, needles, and nets. As they demonstrate their work, each stitch brings the lace to life in a mesmerizing way. Watching these women at work is an unforgettable experience.
The lace makers will guide you through the basic steps of creating a filé piece before inviting you to try your hand at it. With their help, you’ll complete the workshop with your very own filé creation to take home! This experience is not just about learning a technique—it’s about connecting with the culture and history of Alagoas.
After the workshop, stroll through the streets and explore the many artisan shops. It’s the perfect opportunity to find a keepsake from your trip and mark this moment as one of the most memorable of your journey!
MUNDAÚ LAGOON
After your time at the atelier, the guide will take you on an unforgettable jangada (traditional raft) ride across Mundaú Lagoon. As you glide peacefully over the calm waters, take in the stunning sunset over Maceió, with the sky painted in golden and pink hues. The view is nothing short of spectacular, offering a deep connection to the way of life in Pontal da Barra, where fishing and craftsmanship coexist harmoniously.
At the end of the boat ride, the experience culminates in a stroll through the streets of Pontal da Barra. This is the perfect opportunity to savor the local cuisine at cozy restaurants and food stalls. Delight in traditional dishes like caldo de sururu (clam chowder), seafood moqueca, and sweet tapioca. Each bite tells a story, just as the handcrafted filé lace reflects the community’s history and spirit.
By around 5 PM, the guide will escort you back to your hotel. You’ll leave with the feeling of having connected with the heart of Alagoas—immersing yourself in local traditions and experiencing the beauty that emerges from skilled craftsmanship and a close-knit community.
HOW TO GET THERE
Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport
MaçaiOK
MaçaioK is a socio-educational, environmental, and safe adventure tourism company that fosters meaningful connections with municipalities in a sustainable way, generating jobs and income for local communities. Ready to dive into the world of Maceió’s craftsmanship? Visit macaiok.com.br/ to learn more!