Definition of Day of the Dead

In most countries of Latin America the so-called Day of the Dead takes place. Contrary to what it might seem, it is a holiday with a lot of color and joyful motifs, especially among Mexicans.

Historical origin

The first Spaniards who came to continent American had a great impact when verifying that the natives celebrated the cult of death at the beginning of August. In the pre-Hispanic period the Aztecs and other peoples of Mesoamerica they were in the habit of preserving the skulls of loved ones as trophies. This celebration never completely disappeared and, in fact, in Mexico the Day of the Dead has been declared by UNESCO as Cultural heritage Immaterial of Humanity.

In Aztec mythology, the Day of the Dead served to honor two divinities who resided in the underworld (Mictlancihuatl and Mictlantecuhli, the lord and lady of death respectively).

How is it celebrated in Mexico?

With the expansion of Catholicism In Mexican lands, the traditional event began to be celebrated on November 2 for adults and a day before for adults.

kids deceased (in Spain this day takes place on November 1 and is popularly known as the day of the dead or All Saints' Day).

According to tradition popularly, it is believed that the souls of loved ones are present during this journey. To receive the deceased, the altars of the dead are prepared, in which all kinds of offerings are deposited (drink and food, as well as some object that remembers the deceased person).

The altars represent the four elements of nature: the water is placed in a pot made of clay, the earth is represented through some fruit, the candles symbolize fire and, finally, the concept of wind is communicated through the confetti

The flower Cempasúchil is the one used to decorate these spaces.

As is logical, during this day the cemeteries are also visited and candles are placed on the graves. However, Mexicans live this celebration with great doses of humor and for this reason many dress up with the famous Catrina, the representation of a lady from Mexican high society.

One of the typical dishes is the sugar skull. Likewise, verses are recited in all mocking, which are known as literary skulls.

Photos: Fotolia - JC / Andrea Izzotti

Day of the Dead themes