☞ SHOP: The Botanicas of Harlem

Religious shops selling artifacts used to be a common sight in El Barrio but modern day Harlem has seen fewer of these Botanicas in the Spanish neighborhoods.  Items such as statues, dolls, candles, books, necklaces and potions can be found at these specialty storefronts that feature a wide range of denominations.  The diversity of offerings can sometimes be attributed to the syncretic religion called Santería which has Afro-Caribbean roots and often remains a mystery to those who do not practice it.  We only know of a shop at East 104th Street and Lexingtion (top photo),  Botanica Floristeria at West 125th Street (at center) and a small shop on East 116th.