Palenqueras of Cartagena: Preserving Afro-Colombian culture through food

San Basilio de Palenque

San Basilio de Palenque is a village in northern Colombia, described in the video as the Americas’ first free town. It was founded in 1691 by people who escaped Spanish rule. The village has unpaved roads, a central town area, and a close-knit community. Its local language is spoken only there.

Sweets and cultural traditions

Andrea, a palenquera from San Basilio de Palenque, makes traditional sweets using recipes rooted in her ancestors’ traditions. She introduces the reporter to alegría, a sweet whose name means “happiness” in Spanish.

Women from Palenque travel to Cartagena to sell sweets and fruit to locals and tourists. Their bright clothing, street vending, and use of Palenque’s language help keep their culture visible and alive. John, a palenquero, is also committed to preserving the culture.

Note

The video does not provide recipe instructions or specific health routines.