

The izcuintle dog helps the souls to cross the powerful river before entering Mictlan. Bread is a Christian element that symbolizes "the Body of Christ," according to the Institute. For example, in the Huasteca arches with flowers and fruits are placed that invite the dead to enter to the earthly world." Depending on the region there are changes. "In general, the offerings contain salt, water, copal (tree resin), candles, flowers, papel picado (paper cut-outs), skulls, photographs of loved ones and the deceased’s favorite dishes.
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"Although it began with the saints and the faithful departed, now it has become popular to put movie stars, grandparents, saints and even pets," Martínez said.

28, offerings begin to be made at altars, both public and private, and of all sizes. Although there are variations, there seems to be a consensus among experts about the shape of the altars: They are three steps or levels that, from bottom to top, represent the underworld, the earthly plane and the upper stage. "There are people who say that this is pure cultural marketing, but they don't understand that culture is culture because it changes, adapts and transforms," said Enrique Rodríguez Balam, a researcher at UNAM'S Peninsular Center for Humanities and Social Sciences in Mérida, Yucatán. "For me it is a triumph that this parade is popular and brings together thousands of people." Altars, dancing, even cleaning bonesįrom Oct.

The festivity dates back to the 11th century, when the abbot of Cluny created a special day to honor believers who died when Christianity was still considered a sect and persecutions and executions were frequent. By the 13th century, the Roman Catholic Church established Nov. From the 11th century to 'Coco' and 'Spectre' 30 is dedicated to those who died without being baptized and are in limbo. 28 is celebrated for those who died tragically or accidentally, and Oct. Popular beliefs vary depending on the Mexican region. "It is a purely Catholic tradition that the Spaniards bring to Mexico and merges with the entire worldview or form of Mesoamerican thought. It is a festival that gives us belonging and unites us," Martínez said. cities such as Los Angeles and New York, where large offerings, parades and cultural events are held. Countries like Spain, the Philippines, Brazil and Guatemala, among others, also have traditions to celebrate their deceased.īoth public places and homes are filled with altars or offerings to commemorate loved ones with their favorite things, and decorations include cempasúchil flowers (marigolds), paper cut-outs, candles, salt, water, chocolate, sugar skulls, pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and the favorite foods and liquor of the deceased. Día de los Muertos is celebrated not just across Mexico, but also in U.S.
