Tapayan

Tapayan is a big clay jar that is used in some parts of the world to store water. Imagine a big pot made of mud! These jars are made by hand by skilled artisans, usually in villages or rural areas. The clay they use is very special - it's mixed with water and then molded into the shape of a jar.

People use tapayan because they hold a lot of water and the clay keeps the water cool, which is especially important in hot climates. They are also durable and can last a long time. Tapayan jars also have a unique, earthy smell that comes from the damp clay and the water inside.

When people need water, they simply use a dipper or a cup to scoop it out of the tapayan. It's important to keep the jars clean and free of cracks, so they stay watertight. In some places, tapayan are also used for fermenting foods, like rice, coconut milk, or vinegar.

Overall tapayan are an important part of daily life for people in certain parts of the world, and they are a great example of how different cultures find unique solutions to common problems.