San Bartolo Coyotepec black pottery
Discover San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca's heartland of Barro Negro, where ancient traditions meet stunning black clay artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See artisans at work
San Bartolo Coyotepec black pottery
Best Time
See artisans at work
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca's heartland of Barro Negro, where ancient traditions meet stunning black clay artistry.
"This place has the cheapest prices in whole of Mexico, logical since this is its place of origin."
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Oaxaca City
Just a 30-minute drive from Oaxaca City, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion. :car:
💰 Best Prices in Mexico
As the origin of barro negro, prices here are significantly lower than elsewhere. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Workshops
Various workshops throughout San Bartolo Coyotepec
Witness the ancient art of black pottery making firsthand. See artisans shape clay and achieve the signature black finish.
Plaza Artesanal del Barro Negro
Central plaza
Explore a vibrant marketplace showcasing over 100 local artisans and their unique black clay creations.
Polishing Technique Demonstration
Select artisan workshops
Learn about the 1950s innovation that brought a shiny finish to the traditional matte black pottery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the 'Black Clay' Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Oaxaca City
Just a 30-minute drive from Oaxaca City, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion. :car:
💰 Best Prices in Mexico
As the origin of barro negro, prices here are significantly lower than elsewhere. :moneybag:
🤝 Support Local Artisans
Directly purchase from makers to ensure fair prices and authentic pieces. :handshake:
🔥 Witness the Firing Process
Some workshops offer glimpses into the unique firing technique that creates the black color. :fire:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Oaxaca City
Just a 30-minute drive from Oaxaca City, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion. :car:
💰 Best Prices in Mexico
As the origin of barro negro, prices here are significantly lower than elsewhere. :moneybag:
🤝 Support Local Artisans
Directly purchase from makers to ensure fair prices and authentic pieces. :handshake:
🔥 Witness the Firing Process
Some workshops offer glimpses into the unique firing technique that creates the black color. :fire:
🎁 Unique Souvenirs
Find one-of-a-kind jewelry, sculptures, and decorative items. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the incredible talent of the artisans and the authenticity of the black pottery. The opportunity to see the creation process firsthand and purchase directly from the source at unbeatable prices is a major highlight. While some found the variety limited in certain shops, the overall experience is highly rated for its cultural richness and value.
"We stopped by this place as part of a tour, we truly enjoyed the visit. Very talented artesans, we ended up buying a few gorgeous pics."
Claudia Moser
"This location is THE PLACE to go if you're looking for the traditional Oaxaca Black Clay Stone Sculptures. This is where these pieces are originated from. We got a tour inside that gives a live preview or a man making the sculptures, explaining in detail how he makes them. It appears that this technique is being learnt from a very young age. It takes many years to master it. They start with clay, and after they bake it - it gets its black color. Theres just so much more that goes into this process. After the tour, everyones able to purchase the pieces. This place has the cheapest prices in whole of Mexico (which is logical, since this is its place lf origin). Prices for necklaces/bracelets/other jewelery range from 20 to 100 pesos. Small sculptures are about 100 - 150 pesos, medium sculptures range from 200 - 300 pesos and large sculptures from 400 - 1000 pesos. Every single piece has a unique pattern. Nothing is exactly the same. Friendly and helpful cashiers. This place got a 5 star rating for sure."
Mr T
"Wonderful demonstration of pottery making. Wide range of pottery available for sale."
Bill Blodgett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Bartolo Coyotepec is conveniently located about 30 minutes south of Oaxaca City. You can easily reach it by taxi, private car, or by taking a local bus from the Oaxaca bus terminal. Many tours also include San Bartolo Coyotepec as a stop.
Parking is generally available, especially near the artisan plazas and workshops. If you're visiting during a local festival or a busy weekend, you might need to search a bit more.
Absolutely! San Bartolo Coyotepec is a perfect destination for a day trip from Oaxaca City, allowing you to explore the artisan workshops and purchase pottery.
Yes, local buses run from Oaxaca City to San Bartolo Coyotepec. It's a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Walking is the best way to explore San Bartolo Coyotepec, allowing you to discover hidden workshops and interact with artisans. Taxis are also available for longer distances within the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to visit San Bartolo Coyotepec or its artisan plazas. You only pay for any pottery you choose to purchase.
Most artisan workshops are open during daylight hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. It's best to visit during the day to see the artisans actively working.
Yes, many tours from Oaxaca City include guided visits to artisan workshops in San Bartolo Coyotepec, offering insights into the process.
The Plaza Artesanal del Barro Negro is a public space, and there is no admission fee to enter and browse the stalls.
While not strictly necessary, contacting workshops in advance, especially for demonstrations or workshops, can be beneficial. Some artisans offer hands-on experiences.
🎫 🏺 Onsite Experience
Barro Negro, or black pottery, is a distinctive style originating from San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca. It's known for its deep black color, achieved through a unique firing process without paint or glaze.
Artisans use a special clay and a firing technique that limits oxygen, causing the clay to turn black. This process has been refined over centuries.
Yes, purchasing directly from artisans in their workshops or at the Plaza Artesanal is highly recommended for the best prices and to support the community.
You can find a wide variety of items, including decorative sculptures, bowls, vases, mugs, jewelry, and more, each with unique patterns.
Many artisans offer demonstrations and even workshops where you can learn about and try the pottery-making techniques.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While San Bartolo Coyotepec is primarily known for its pottery, you can find local eateries offering traditional Oaxacan cuisine. For a wider selection, it's best to dine in Oaxaca City.
Yes, small restaurants and food stalls often serve regional specialties. Look for places offering mole, tlayudas, and other Oaxacan delights.
Keep an eye out for dishes featuring local ingredients. Many artisans also offer refreshments during celebrations.
Traditional Oaxacan cuisine can be adapted. It's always a good idea to ask about ingredients when ordering.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the workshops.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always polite to ask the artisan for permission before taking close-up shots or filming extensively.
Capture the artisans at work, the intricate details of the black pottery, the firing process, and the vibrant marketplace.
Morning light is often ideal for photography, providing soft, even illumination. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour light.
Be mindful of private property and personal space. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during private family events.
Yes, you can photograph the finished pieces, but remember to ask before taking detailed shots of specific items you might be interested in purchasing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for smaller, more manageable pieces like decorative animals or simple bowls as souvenirs. The Plaza Artesanal is a great place for kids to explore and see a wide variety of items. Remember to bring water and snacks, and consider visiting in the cooler morning hours to make the outing more comfortable for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local buses for transportation from Oaxaca City to save on travel costs. While there, focus on purchasing directly from artisans in their workshops or at the Plaza Artesanal to get the best deals. Pack your own snacks and water to further minimize expenses.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Engage with the artisans, learn about their techniques, and understand the cultural significance of their work. Visiting multiple workshops can provide diverse perspectives on the art form. The Plaza Artesanal is a treasure trove of unique designs and artistic expressions, perfect for finding a meaningful piece to take home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Barro Negro: From Clay to Kiln
The magic truly happens in the kiln. During firing, artisans control the oxygen levels, creating a chemical reaction within the clay that results in the deep black color. This technique, passed down through generations, is what makes Barro Negro so unique and valuable. The polishing method, introduced in the 1950s, further enhances the sheen, giving the pottery its iconic glossy appearance.
Visiting the workshops in San Bartolo Coyotepec offers a profound appreciation for this craft. You can witness the entire process, from the raw clay to the finished, gleaming pieces. Many artisans are eager to share their knowledge, making it an educational and inspiring experience.
A Community Built on Craftsmanship
The Plaza Artesanal del Barro Negro is a testament to this collective effort, bringing together over 100 artisans. Here, you can find an incredible array of black pottery, from delicate jewelry to large decorative sculptures. Purchasing directly from these artisans ensures that your money directly supports their families and the continuation of this ancient art form.
Beyond the pottery, San Bartolo Coyotepec is also known for its strong community spirit. Visitors might even stumble upon local celebrations or festivals, offering a glimpse into the vibrant Oaxacan culture. The town has also made strides in sustainability, with initiatives like waste separation and recycling.
Finding the Perfect Piece: Shopping Tips
Each piece of Barro Negro is unique, with its own subtle variations in pattern and finish. This individuality is part of its charm. When you buy directly from an artisan, you're not just acquiring an object; you're taking home a piece of Oaxacan history and a story.
Consider what you're looking for: decorative items, functional pieces like mugs or bowls, or perhaps unique jewelry. Many artisans are happy to explain the story behind their creations, adding even more value to your purchase.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit