The Tortilla Race: A Celebration of Tradition
A vibrant tradition in Santa María Coapan, Puebla, where women race carrying tortillas, honoring their heritage and resilience
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
The Women of Coapan
They are the women of Santa María Coapan, who daily make the 5 kilometer journey from Coapan to Tehuacán, sometimes carrying up to 20 kilos of tortillas in their tanates to offer their products from house to house or in restaurants.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
The Tortilla Race
It is in the spirit of the Coapeñas, that the tortilla race was born 29 years ago. Although it emerged as an initiative to raise funds for an elementary school, over time it became an expression of the pride that women feel in their culture.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
On your Marks, Get Set... Tortillas!
Accompanied by their loaded penate, as is their daily custom, the women of Coapan start their 5-kilometer race from the center of Tehuacán to Santa María Coapan, carrying between one and six kilos of tortillas they have made themselves, depending on the category.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Festival of Colors
Over 400 women, from grandmothers to daughters, gather for the annual Tortilla Race, recreating the 5 km journey they make daily, showcasing the strength and resilience of their community.
Pride in Every Step
The women's faces reflect a blend of determination, joy, and pride as they participate in the race. Their confident strides and unwavering smiles embody the spirit of the race, a celebration of tradition, perseverance, and the unwavering connection to their cultural roots.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Traditional Future
The race represents a bridge between generations and an invaluable opportunity to keep the flame of traditions alive and ensure they endure into the future.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Land of Corn
Corn is considered the root of civilization and agriculture in America. Mexico, with its 59 native species of corn, is recognized as one of the cradles of this mythical grain.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Corn: Ancestral Essence
Approximately 45 million tons of corn are consumed in Mexico each year, demonstrating its relevance in the Mexican diet and culture as a symbol of national identity and pride.
From Grain to Tortilla
These humble corn kernels represent a vital part of Mexican culture. They are the foundation of tortillas, a beloved food that has sustained generations and is deeply intertwined with the nation's identity.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Coapan: Tortilla Capital of the World
In Coapan, more than ten tons of corn are processed per day, which are marketed in Tehuacán, Puebla and the rest of the country.
Essence of Corn
Santa María Coapan is one of the places where the tortilla culture is important. More than 50% women are dedicated to its production and marketing.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
A Proud Matriarchy
The making of tortillas is a knowledge that has been transmitted from generation to generation to women, who are the breadwinners of their homes.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Honor to the Land of Corn
This tradition is Cultural heritage of Santa Maria Coapan and Tehuacan.
Tortilla Race (2019) by General Directorate of Popular, Indigenous and Urban CulturesMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
The Future of Tortillas
This young girl, dressed in traditional attire, embodies the spirit of Coapan, where generations have passed down the art of tortilla making and run with them.
This story was created with information and support from Dirección General de Culturas Populares, Indígenas y Urbanas.
