calesas

A calesa is a type of horse-drawn carriage that originated in the Philippines. It is a two-wheeled cart typically designed to carry two passengers in the front and the driver in the back. The term "calesa" itself is derived from the Spanish word "calesa," which also refers to a light, two-wheeled carriage.

Historically, calesas were a common mode of transportation in urban areas of the Philippines, particularly in Manila. They were used for both personal travel and as public transport, offering a relatively affordable and accessible way to get around. The design is characterized by its open sides and a canopy to provide shade. The passenger seats are often arranged side-by-side facing forward, with the driver perched on a smaller seat behind them.

While their prominence has diminished with the advent of motorized vehicles, calesas can still be found in certain tourist areas and some older districts in the Philippines. They are often seen as a charming relic of the past and a unique cultural experience for visitors. Riding a calesa offers a slower-paced and more traditional way to explore the surroundings, often accompanied by the clip-clop of horse hooves on cobblestone streets. The maintenance and operation of calesas are typically managed by individual drivers, many of whom have been part of a long family tradition.