During the colonial era, artisans manufactured wooden structures with handles, which were used as a way of transporting both goods and members of the higher social classes on the steep roads of the Andean mountain range. Later, these wooden structures, called “
Silletas“, were used by the peasants who grew flowers to carry large quantities on their backs to bring them into town for sale. Many peasants walked for hours with the
Silletas on their backs, most notably from the eastern town of Santa Elena to the center of Medellín. The journey of approximately 22 kilometers is no small feat, as the
silletas are large and often very heavy. The economic fate of the family of the person carrying the
Silleta (
El Silletero) often rested on his shoulders, adding a metaphorical element to this traditional activity. This admirable physical activity is revered locally today – when
Los Silleteros arrive for the parade the patrons cheer enthusiastically
. It is a local reminder of the ancient inhabitants of the city, and fully symbolizes the hard-working and persevering character of the paisas as a people.