About Borucas
The Borucas, also known as Brunca, Brunka, or Brunkajc, are an indigenous people native to Costa Rica. The indigenous community has approximately 2000 members, most of whom live in a territory in the province of Puntarenas in the southeastern part of the country.
The Borucas are known for their craftsmanship, especially textiles, and their unique masks carved from balsa wood. These masks are significant in the annual Boruca Mask Festival (Cabru Rocj), celebrated every year since colonial times. The festival represents the battle between the "little devils" (the Boruca people) and the Spanish conquistadors and is accompanied by traditional foods such as pork, tamales, and the traditional drink known as "chicha".
Traditional Deity
Sibö
Population
Around 2000
Main economic activities
Artisan crafts, agriculture, and tourism.
Language
Boruca
Our experience at
Jícaro Artesanías
Jícaro Artesanías is an artisan workshop owned and operated by a local family. It is located next to the Costanera, a highway that runs along Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast. The workshop was founded by skilled artisans passionate about preserving their cultural heritage. Jícaro Artesanías specializes in crafting traditional masks used in the Boruca dance, known as El Baile de los Diablitos, which symbolizes the ongoing struggle between the Boruca people and the Spanish conquistadors.
The workshop is in the Rey Curré Boruca Territory, surrounded by tall trees and the peaceful sounds of nature. Here, artisans use traditional techniques passed down through generations to craft each mask carefully. They begin by selecting the finest materials, sourced from the local forests, such as jícaros, wood, cedar, and natural pigments extracted from plants and minerals.
The masks produced at Jícaro Artesanías are not just decorative pieces but are significant cultural artifacts within the Boruca community. Each mask tells a story of resilience, courage, and identity, infused with intricate designs that depict ancestral figures, animals, and geometric patterns reflecting the rich mythology, history, and spiritual beliefs of the Boruca people.
One of the essential roles of these masks is in El Baile de los Diablitos, a traditional dance performed during the annual Boruca Mask Festival. Members of the Boruca community wear masks that represent native Costa Rican animal species, such as jaguars, monkeys, and demons, and reenact the ancient battle between the indigenous Boruca and the Spanish conquistadors, symbolized by a bull. The Borucas always win in the Baile de los Diablitos. The masks serve as powerful symbols of cultural pride and resistance, embodying the spirit of the Boruca people and their unwavering determination to preserve their way of life.
The masks created at Jícaro Artesanías are not only cherished within the Boruca community but have also gained recognition on a national and international scale. Tourists and collectors are drawn to these masterfully crafted masks, appreciating their artistic beauty and cultural significance. Through their intricate craftsmanship, Jícaro Artesanías plays a crucial role in keeping the traditions of the Boruca people alive, ensuring that their cultural heritage continues to thrive for generations to come. We encourage anyone visiting the Southern Pacific region of Costa Rica to pay a visit to Jícaro Artesanías and check out their masks and crafts for sale.
Location
Tel: +506 8846-8786
Boruca Community Museum
Located in Costa Rica's Boruca Indigenous Territory, the Boruca Community Museum is a special place that tells the story of the Boruca people. Founded in 2005, it's run by the La Flor de Boruca Producers Association. Inside, you'll find beautiful crafts and learn about Boruca traditions.
Step inside and travel back in time as you explore Boruca culture. From woven textiles to carved masks, each item holds a piece of Boruca history.
The museum helps the Boruca community grow economically by supporting projects like community credits. It also participates in workshops and meetings to help other museums in Costa Rica.
The museum is open to everyone and has special access for those with different needs. They also sell crafts to support their projects and keep the museum running smoothly.
In the future, the museum plans to offer more experiences for visitors, like tasting traditional foods and trying artisanal activities.
Visit the Boruca Community Museum any day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's a great way to learn about Boruca culture and support the local community.
Open
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location
