The most common food item is pan de muerto, bread of the dead, a round loaf of sugary, sweet bread with the image of a skull and cross bones. Food and Drinkįavorite foods and drinks are prepared and laid out for the spirits to enjoy. Often there will be a cross of some form on the altar and this is a sign of forgiveness. Some say it also wards off any bad spirits from approaching the altar. Copal is the most commonly used incense and is used to purify the energy of the air around the altar. Incense and candles are another way to guide the spirits to the altar. You might also see petals laid out on the ground in a path towards the altar. These are the cempasuchil flowers and their scent will guide the spirits of the deceased as they return to visit their family. Many beautiful yellow, gold and orange flowers will adorn the altar. It is believed that salt will protect the body from breaking down as it travels the journey between the world of the dead and of the living.
Most altars have a simple white table cloth, often one that has been passed through generations, covering the different levels. Each altar is individual but here are 5 items (plus a couple more) that you are likely to see on a Dia de los Muertos altar in Mexico: 1. Traditionally an altar consists of three levels representing heaven, Earth and the world in between.
These beautiful altars include a variety of symbols and objects which represent those who have passed on.īecause there are several days of celebrations and preparations to receive loved ones, the altars take time and dedication. Deceased loved ones are welcomed back to the land of the living for just a short time and altars are constructed to honor and remember family members and will be present in most households. El Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, Celebrations in Mexico take place from the 31st of October to the 2nd of November.
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