El Día de los Muertos
El Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is probably one of the most important traditions in the Hispanic world. Although it is celebrated in many countries, the tradition is particularly important in Mexico.
The history of El día de los Muertos goes back to the ancient civilizations of the American continent. When Europeans arrived and conquered, they altered the tradition and made it coincide with the Christian celebrations of All Saint’s Day in an attempt to covert the natives to Catholicism, on November 2nd. The tradition has evolved through time, and it is a mixture o ancient beliefs and the Catholic tradition.
El Día de los Muertos is basically a time to remember and honor dear ones who have died. According to the tradition, dead people are believed to return to our world on this day. The celebration often includes visits to graveyards, which are decorated with colorful flowers.
In order to welcome the departed ones, their favorite meals are prepared and placed on ofrendas (altars) that also show on display all the things that they used to enjoy when they were alive. Marigold flowers (cempazuchitl) are used to help the dead to find their way to their ofrendas. In reality, of course, no dead person shows up, so the food is enjoyed by family and friends.
In rural places, the Day of the Dead is celebrated more traditionally. Is not uncommon to start the preparations for the event weeks in advance. In big urban areas the tradition is kept by exhibiting altars in public places, schools and government offices. Although altars are usually dedicated to deceased famous people, oftentimes they are dedicated to public figures who are still alive, as an opportunity to make a political commentary, make jokes, and bring some sense of humor to the celebration.
El Día de los Muertos is not a mourning day, but a time to enjoy life with family and friends, while preparing traditional food. Day of the Dead is a time to remember that dead is a part of life. In it’s own way, Dia de los Muertos is a celebration of life.
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| Last updated 2025/04/10 17:12:19 PDT | Hits 2363 |
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