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Skulls and skeletons hold deep significance in Day of the Dead celebrations, serving as symbols of the cycle of life and death. Unlike the fearful connotations often associated with death in many cultures, the Day of the Dead embraces death as a natural part of existence.
- Skulls
- Marigolds
- Perforated Paper
- Pan de Muerto
- Salt
- Photographs
Probably one of the most recognizable symbols of Día de los Muertos, these skulls are often made of granulated sugar, meringue powder and water. The mixture is molded into the shape of a skull, and then decorated with brightly colored ornamentation. “The skulls represent the people who have passed and who are receiving offerings at the altar,” says...
Often referred to as “flowers of the dead” (flor de muerto),it’s believed that the scent of these bright orange blooms help attract souls to the altar. At La Casa del Artesano, clusters of freshly picked marigolds are intermingled with burning incense made of the resin of the copal tree and a bell, whose scent and sound are intended to draw in soul...
While many people opt to go the easy route and purchase pre-made versions of this intricately cut tissue paper, López Fértor’s roommate cut theirs by hand. “The holes allow a way for souls to travel through and visit,” López Fértor says. It’s also believed that the delicate nature of the paper is symbolic of the fragility of life.
This soft and sweet bread is designed with a circle and limbs to mimic the shape of a skull and crossbones and is finished with a dusting of sugar. It’s just one of a number of food stuffs placed at altars for hungry souls to partake in. “We usually include items that the person liked when they were alive,” Islas says. “We also place a bottle of wa...
Also said to help quench the thirst of souls, salt is set out in the pattern of a cross so that “the soul won’t be corrupted,” López Fértor says. The salt, he adds, "helps purify them."
Photos placed on an altar are always of someone who is deceased. “Otherwise, they won’t be drawn to the altar and can’t cross over,” he says. López Fértor included photos of his grandparents and family friends at his altar, while the artisans at La Casa de Artesano placed pictures of fellow artists who had died earlier this year.
Nov 1, 2021 · There are many traditions observed on the Day of the Dead, and the skull is known as a very important emblem of the holiday. Part of that is the calavera, or the sugar skull, which has various...
Aug 29, 2020 · Sugar skulls, or Calaveras de azúcar, are deeply rooted in the Mexican tradition and culture. This festive and whimsical symbol is an important part of the Day of the Dead, or Día de Los Muertos – a Mexican holiday that marks the remembrance and celebration of those who have passed. The skulls are made of sugar and embellished with bright ...
Mar 15, 2024 · There are so many Dia de los Muertos symbols — every single item on the altar and in cemeteries represents something and has a meaning. I’m going to share what I’ve learned from living in Mexico and celebrating Day of the Dead here.
Oct 29, 2020 · The Aztecs used skulls to honor the dead a millennium before the Day of the Dead celebrations emerged. Skulls, like the ones once placed on Aztec temples, remain a key symbol in a tradition...
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Oct 16, 2024 · During Día de los Muertos, observed Oct. 31- Nov. 2, they believed the dead had a brief window to leave the spirit realm and visit their loved ones in the mortal world.
