The chiva is the rural bus that has connected the towns of Antioquia for more than a century: colorful, loaded with people and bunches of plantains on the roof, and today it's one of the country's most beloved icons. Colombian artisan chivas are hand-painted with paisa scenes, football team shields, and colorful motifs that make each piece a unique miniature.
We also work on figures inspired by the sculptures of Fernando Botero, the paisa master who filled Medellín and the entire world with his voluminous shapes. They are ceramic and resin pieces, hand-painted in Antioquian workshops, perfect for taking a piece of Colombian art home.
Pick up your chivas or figures for free at our store in Laureles (Calle 44a #70-79) or coordinate cash on delivery in Medellín and nationally via courier. We pack them with bubble wrap and a rigid box so they travel safely. Write to us on WhatsApp to know the available designs.
Hand-painted in Antioquia · Secure packaging for travel
Chiva shot glass holder from Medellín: the traditional Colombian chiva, the colorful party bus, turned into a handy holder for shot glasses. An original and useful souvenir to take home from Colombia, great as a gift.
Handcrafted Colombian shot glass holder with embossed relief and colorful lettering spelling COLOMBIA. It holds two shot glasses and is perfect for serving aguardiente or Colombian spirits at home. An original, useful souvenir and a great gift.
Handmade Antioquian craft figure in cold porcelain: a countryman or countrywoman in traditional hat, scarf and dress hugging a small decorative bottle, on a base with a Medellín sign. Available in several models (man and woman). A very paisa souvenir to give as a gift or to decorate with.
The Large Handmade Ceramic Chiva is a quintessential Colombian craft piece that captures the vibrant and colorful essence of our culture. Carefully crafted by local artisans, this chiva stands out for its detailed design and faithful representation of the popular decorated buses that traverse our landscapes. Made from high-quality ceramic, each chiva is hand-painted, making each piece unique and special. This figure is not only a beautiful ornament for any space but also a symbol of our tradition and joy. As a souvenir of Medellín, the ceramic chiva encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of its people, adding an indigenous and artistic touch to your collection of memories. It is the perfect gift to take a piece of Colombia in your heart. We invite you to visit our store in Laureles, Medellín, to appreciate it in person, or if you prefer, you can place your order through WhatsApp and we will take care of the rest.
The Small Ceramic Chiva is an iconic representation of Colombian culture, designed and handmade by local artisans. This model captures the vibrant and colorful essence that characterizes the famous chivas, those buses full of history that travel the roads of Colombia. Made of high-quality ceramic, each chiva reflects the detailed art and dedication of the artisan, making each piece a unique work.
The Medium Ceramic Chiva is an iconic representation of Colombian culture, designed and handmade by local artisans. This model captures the vibrant and colorful essence that characterizes the famous chivas, those buses full of history that travel the roads of Colombia. Made of high-quality ceramic, each chiva reflects the detailed art and dedication of the artisan, making each piece a unique work.
Yes. Each chiva is hand-painted in artisan workshops in Antioquia. You can notice the variations in color and details in each piece — that's what makes them unique and distinguishes them from industrial replicas.
Yes. We pack them with bubble wrap and a rigid box to withstand luggage handling. We recommend placing them in hand luggage if they are small, or well-wrapped in clothing if they're in the large suitcase.
Chivas from 8 cm to 30 cm. The 12-15 cm ones are the most popular for gifts. Botero figures vary according to the model (tabletop to miniatures). Write to us with what you are looking for, and we will send you photos with exact dimensions.
Visiting Medellín? Take an e-bike tour and pick up your souvenirs in Laureles. See the private e-bike tour
