Within the municipality of Pedro Escobedo is Escolásticas, a community recognized for its tradition, its history and, above all, for the mastery of its artisans dedicated to the work of the quarry.
The quarry, a volcanic rock of great resistance to impacts, abrasion and fire, has been for centuries an essential resource both in the construction and in the creation of sculptures and ornaments, since it is due to its versatility and durability that it has become a characteristic element of Querétaro houses and numerous works that today are part of the cultural heritage of Mexico.
The mastery in the cutting, carving and sculpting of this mineral can be seen during the path that crosses the community of Escolásticas, where a large part of the more than 350 stonemasonry workshops that exist in the town are installed, a showcase of decorative pieces, architectural elements, fountains, religious icons and a bestiary of sculptures of the most diverse nature that escort on this occasion we had the opportunity to visit the Finca Mar, one of the most important and oldest workshops in the region.
With more than 27 years of experience, this space is led by Ángel Alejandro Camargo and his father, maestro Alejandro Camargo, who represent the essence of the quarry tradition and who throughout their career their hands have given life to nationally recognized pieces, such as the emblematic sculpture of Lele in the Querétaro Gardens or El Corazón de México, works that reflect dedication, patience and a deep love for his craft.
To arrive at a finished sculpture it is necessary to go through several stages: from the extraction from the quarry, its cutting under pressure, the meticulous carving by hand and the delicate final finishes; where depending on the size and level of detail, each creation can take between two and three months to complete. And how it is that behind each figure, mural or ornament there is not only an impeccable technique, but also contains an enormous load of history and tradition passed down from generation to generation.
With this in mind and after a valuable career in the world of the academy, maestro Alejandro Camargo shared with us his experience of more than 40 years in the trade. He recalled how in the beginning, only quarries from the region were used and all the work was carried out by hand, without the support of heavy machinery, and how over time, the arrival of material from different states of the Republic (such as Hidalgo, Puebla or Aguascalientes) expanded the possibilities of work, since each quarry offers unique characteristics in tonality, density and texture, which enriches the creativity and diversity of the pieces that are produced today in the workshop.
Despite technological advances, the master stressed that the true value of the craft continues to be in the manual talent of the artisan
In addition, both he and his son expressed their desire to continue transmitting this knowledge to new generations, since they consider it essential that young people learn and fall in love with this trade so that the art of the quarry continues to live as a symbol of identity and tradition for Querétaro and for all of Mexico.
Thus, Escolásticas consolidates itself as a destination that not only attracts for its natural beauty, but also for the talent of its people. Where, when contemplating the sculptures, murals and finished ornaments, it is impossible not to recognize the enormous cultural legacy that is preserved in the community, a place that not only keeps an invaluable natural resource, but also preserves the living memory of men and women who with dedication, passion and pride have turned stone into art.
Do you already know the Hotel Mexico Plaza Querétaro? Stay in a place with all the amenities, ideal for rest and work, with a privileged location in the capital of Querétaro. Find out about their offer and booking.
Travel back in time and learn about the history of Querétaro. Hop on one of the Stagecoaches and tour some of the most emblematic places in the city, enjoy a ride that will make you feel like you are in another era.
Incredible cabins with pools, perfect for vacationing with the family and enjoying hot days to the fullest.
