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A kalesa (sometimes called a karitela) is a horse-driven calash (carriage) used in the Philippines. The word, also spelled calesa, predates the Spanish conquest and descends ultimately from an Old Church Slavonic word meaning "wheels." This was one of the modes of transportation introduced in the Philippines in the 18th century by the Spaniards that only nobles and high ranked officials could afford.[1] They are rarely used in the streets nowadays except in tourist spots and some rural areas.

When the kalesa was introduced in the 18th century during the Spanish occupation, it became one of the modes of transportation in the Philippines, especially for commerce. Rich Filipinos known as the ilustrados used the kalesa for personal travel as well as for the transport of goods to nearby areas.[2]

Although the kalesa has become a rarity, some century-old examples are still preserved in areas of the Philippines, such as the city of Vigan.[2] Kalesas can also be found in Intramuros and Binondo in the city of Manila and also in Iligan City, which has a street where decorated kalesas can be taken for a ride.