History of Charrería
Tradition, courage, and equestrian skill
Charrería Timeline
Arrival of the Horse
The Spanish introduce horses to New Spain. Indigenous peoples are prohibited from riding, creating a class of criollo and mestizo horsemen.
The Caporales
The caporales emerge, horsemen responsible for cattle management in the haciendas of central and western Mexico.
Equestrian Tradition
Equestrian skills become a cultural and social tradition, with informal competitions on haciendas.
First Association
The first National Association of Charros is founded in Mexico City, formalizing charrería as a sport.
National Sport
Charrería is officially recognized as Mexico's national sport.
UNESCO Heritage
Charrería is inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Importance of Western Mexico
Western Mexico, particularly Jalisco and the Altos de Jalisco region, is the birthplace of charrería. This region was fundamental in the development of equestrian traditions that would eventually become Mexico's national sport.
Meaning of the Term "Charro"
The word "charro" has roots that go back to the colonial era. It was originally used to describe skilled horsemen of the Mexican countryside, and over time became a symbol of national identity.
Mexico's National Sport
Charrería was declared Mexico's national sport and in 2016 was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Cultural Activities
Charreada
The charreada is the formal charrería competition, where charros demonstrate their skills in various events such as coleadero, bull riding, rope tricks, and more.
Rope Artistry
The art of rope spinning is one of the most spectacular expressions of charrería, where the charro creates artistic figures with the rope.
Independence Parade
The traditional Mexican Independence Day parade, where the charro community participates in their finest attire with their horses.
Guest Specialists
Dra. Angélica Peregrina
Historian and charrería specialist
Kenia Cornejo Márquez
Cultural Researcher