It’s a colonial city in Colombia where craftsmen make jewelry using Arabian designs and techniques. This ancient art has existed in the town of Mompox since the Spanish Conquest.

In the 1500’s, Spaniards stored their gold and silver in Mompox to protect it from pirates. Many artisans from Spain relocated to the town to meet the growing demand for goldsmiths.

The fine metalwork is the result of a laborious process. One piece can take more than one week to make.

Take a look at these images of the Arab art of filigree.