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Homero Ortega
Ecuador
This charming shop is rooted in tradition, due to it specialising in creating one of the ultimate symbols of Ecuador: the Panama hat. Ignore the fact that the headgear takes its name from a different country (Panama is in Central America); this is a true product of Ecuador, and a classic one at that.
The craftsmanship required to create one of these hats is extraordinary: a fusion of natural fibres and jewels that come together to create a physical statement of Ecuador. The Panama hat has gained notoriety in all corners of the globe, such is its popularity with hat fanatics. Or even just people who are partial to a nice hat.
Homero Ortega is the product of five generations of the Ortega family successfully making and selling these special hats. No-one can make a Panama hat like the Ortega family, which is a testament to their ongoing success and popularity.
In 2008, Homero Ortega opened an adjoining museum, called 'The Magic of the Hat' - so you can learn about the Panama hat, as well as browse and buy them. The museum consists of three rooms; one dedicated to the history of the hat, one detailing the hat-making process, and one describing the family history of Homero Ortega.
