Kalesa

Kalesa
Top: A karomata-type kalesa in Baywalk, Manila;
Bottom: A karitela-type kalesa in Intramuros, Manila
ApplicationTransportation
PoweredNo
Self-propelledNo
Wheels2

A kalesa (Philippine Spanish: calesa), is a two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage used in the Philippines.[1][2] It is commonly vividly painted and decorated.[3] It was a primary mode of public and private transportation during the Spanish colonial era of the Philippines, though in modern times, they largely only survive as tourist attractions, such as in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Kalesas have other names based on the number of passengers they can seat. Small kalesas which can carry one or two passengers in front-facing seats are known as karomata or karumata. Larger kalesas which carry freight or up to six or more passengers in side-facing seats are known as karitela or karetela (also tartanilla in Cebu). However, these terms have become interchangeable over time. Four-wheeled carriages are differentiated as karwahe.

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Montefalcon was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference smith was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ Chiu, Imes (2008). The Evolution from Horse to Automobile: A Comparative International Study. Cambria Press. pp. 224–229. ISBN 9781604975468.

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