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One of the best things about Mompox are the local specialties that can be found all around town. There are three in particular that are worth seeking out in this Colombian Heritage Town (Pueblo Patrimonio) and UNESCO World Heritage site.

 

Filigree

The most important craft in Mompox is filigree (filigrana). This ancient jewelry technique has been performed in Mompox since colonial times, and stores can be found scattered throughout the historic town center.

Filigree in Mompox, Bolívar, Colombia
A street vendor showing off his filigree jewelry

Artists are happy to show you rings, earrings, pendants and other pieces they created using silver and gold. Many pieces have a strictly Colombian theme. Unfortunately, the artists we spoke to refused to show us how they made the filigree. They were afraid it would be copied.

Filigree in Mompox, Bolívar, Colombia
Filigree jewelry
Filigree in Mompox, Bolívar, Colombia
Filigree jewelry

 

Corozo Wine

Corozo wine is another specialty. It seemed like every single tourist in Mompox takes home a bottle of this sweet fruit liqueur. Corozo is a small red fruit common in Colombia. When eaten raw, it tastes sour, but when used in a juice or wine, it takes on a sweeter flavor.

Corozo wine
Corozo wine

You can find several stores in town selling corozo wine. Take a sample and I’m sure you’ll end up taking a bottle or two with you!

Corozo wine
Corozo wine

 

Queso de Capa

Finally, you can find queso de capa, a special cheese made by only a handful of families in Mompox. It consists of thin bands of cheese wrapped into several layers. The flavor is mild and reminded me of mozzarella. It’s easy to find street vendors walking around town selling queso de capa, both plain and stuffed with bocadillo (guava jam), packaged in small plastic bags. If you buy it on your travels, it will keep for a few days.

Queso de capa
Queso de capa
Author

Owner of Paisadventure. World traveler. Chicago sports lover. Living in Colombia.

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