What is the Witches Market in La Paz Bolivia?
La Paz’s Mercado de las Brujas, or the Witches’ Market, is a hot spot for spiritual workers, who read fortunes and facilitate cha’llas (“offerings”) to Pachamama.
What can be found in the Witches Market in Bolivia?
The market is run by local witch doctors known as yatiri, who sell potions, dried frogs, medicinal plants like retama, and armadillos used in Bolivian rituals. The yatiri can be easily identified by their black hats and coca pouches containing amulets, talismans and powders that promise luck, beauty and fertility.
What do you buy at a witch market?
On sale at the Witches’ Market, amid quantities of cheap trinkets, alpaca sweaters, and happy pants, are less attractive piles of dried frogs and rats, owl feathers, seeds, herbs, and insect parts, as well as medicinal plants, love potions, ceramic figures, and amulets.
Why do Bolivians sell dead llamas?
These unfortunate stillborns are nevertheless considered incredibly lucky. They can be burnt as an offering to Pachamama, buried under the foundations of the house, or left by a front door, in the belief that they bring prosperity and health, and keep evil spirits away.
What is a llama fetus used for?
Llama fetus (dried): To protect the house. An estimated 99% of Bolivian families have a dried llama fetus thrown under the foundations of their house for luck.
What are dried frogs used for in Bolivia?
Llama fetus (burnt on a plate of sweets and herbs): To ensure luck for a new business venture. Dried frogs: For money.
Is Bolivia famous for anything?
Bolivia is known for its dizzying altitude, loads of llamas, and deadly roads that wind through the jungle. It is also famous for its gigantic salt flats, a mind-blowing range of flora and fauna, and a diverse range of landscapes to visit.
What are 3 unusual facts about Bolivia?
21 Fascinating Facts About Bolivia
- Bolivia is home to 37 official languages.
- Sucre is the official capital of Bolivia.
- Salar de Uyuni is the world’s biggest mirror!
- Simón Bolívar is known as the Liberator.
- Bolivia is a landlocked country.
- Altitude sickness can be a concern in La Paz!
What is La Paz known for?
The Bolivian city of La Paz is one of the world’s most remarkable locales. At 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level, La Paz is the highest de facto capital city in the world — and its cable car system, which is the world’s longest and highest, offers stunning views of the city’s many vistas.