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In León leatherwork is a way of life. Once a small colonial town in the central state of Guanajuato, León is home to some of the world’s most skilled cobblers and bootmakers, whose craft has been passed from one generation to the next since the mid-1600s, and some 3,000 shoe manufacturers, including many of the biggest and oldest names in the boot business.
Many call León: “Shoe Capital of the World”.
Today, León is Guanajuato’s largest and most populated city, featuring huge industrial parks. But León is regularly overlooked by foreign visitors despite offering some of the best souvenir bargains.
It’s also home to the state’s signature sandwich, the Guacamaya (literally ‘macaw’). You’ll be happy to hear that Guacamayas (we’re talking ’bout the snack) don’t feature any poultry though, instead consisting of a crusty bread roll filled with crispy chicharrón (pork crackling) and topped with a spicy tomato sauce.
Beyond the street sandwiches, make it a priority to explore the shops and vendors selling not only shoes, but also high-quality, affordable leather goods in the Zona Piel (Leather Zone).
If you’re unsure what to buy, a pair of classic huaraches or leather cowboy boots is always a safe bet.
Cowboy boots (Photo: cowboysandindinas.com)
Zona Piel, Avenida Hilario Medina, Coecillo, 37219 León, +52 477 763 4159
Festival Internacional del Globo León Guanajato (Photo: CNN)
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