"Marías" dolls: meaning and more Mexican facts

In Mexico, the stories have no end and it is wonderful to get into our culture through crafts, typical food, landscapes, and even traditional toys. Of the latter, there is a colorful variety that entertains young and old, such as the lottery, the spinning top, and many more.

On this occasion, we want to introduce you to “María”, a doll full of Mexican culture, history, and a lot of meaning among national crafts. Shall we start the tour?

More than history

If you visit markets or tourist plazas in Mexico you will surely find this rag doll with colored ribbons, typical fabrics, a very friendly expression and of all sizes, the “Marías” or Amealco dolls are a great representation of their indigenous community of origin.

They were created in the time of New Spain when porcelain dolls were exported —which had a higher production cost. At that time, the Mazahua and Otomí communities located in the center of the country in the Estado de México, Querétaro, Guanajuato, and Michoacán mainly, began to design these dolls as a tribute to the women of this region.

Tradition and meaning

The hair is braided with ribbons and the dress with traditional and handmade fabrics, the “Marías” are 100% handmade and that tradition is still preserved today. Although the first dolls were made of clay, palm, and corn, today each element is still a handicraft worthy of admiration.

It is said that the “Marías” dolls are a protective element for children since with them evil spirits are scared away, hence the belief that by giving one of these dolls, good wishes are desired to that person. It is an excellent gift!

Mexican culture at Velas Resorts

As part of honoring and exalting our culture, at Velas Resorts we especially preserve these national treasures. An example is our activities focused on preserving and spreading the beauty of Mexican handicrafts. In our Alebrijes Workshop, you will design your own magical creature full of colors and meaning, you will be able to fill yourself with energy by making your own God’s Eye or you will learn about traditional toys and even make your own kite or your “Maria” doll in a special workshop for the little ones —the latter specifically at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.

On the other hand, if we talk about gastronomy, the typical Mexican flavors are reflected in the Grand Velas at the Frida restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes such as the traditional aguachile, of course, always with the special touch of Velas Resorts. Similarly, in Grand Velas Los Cabos you will find a space dedicated to the most popular spirits in the country, Tequila & Mezcal, this is a perfect tasting room to rest or have a pleasant time and recommended for people who enjoy reading or, work in an enviable environment overlooking the sea. In addition, in the afternoons, special tequila and mezcal tastings are held, an experience that can be lived at the Grand Velas resorts.

If we talk about relaxation, the Spa treatments also enhance the Mexican ingredients, for example, the Blue Agave Candle Massage in SE Spa at Grand Velas Los Cabos, which is the plant from which tequila is produced, and through a subtle massage of gentle pressure, the warm sensation of organic wax that will provide body and spiritual serenity, as well as the excellent therapeutic benefits of blue agave for being anti-inflammatory, restorative and moisturizing.