November 1, All Saints Day, and November 2, All Souls Day, are special dates set aside throughout Mexico as a time of remembrance and communion with the dearly departed. With a unique mix of elements rooted in ancient Mexico and the European continent, the altar de muertos exemplifies the fusion of old and new world beliefs, rituals and customs.
Emerging with the rise of the mestizo culture was the common conviction that the souls of the dead return to earth for a one-day visit tied into All Souls Day. Mexican families traditionally welcome the departed spirits with a memorial altar laden with assorted items selected to ease their journey homeward, honor their lives and satiate an appetite for earthly pleasures.
Typically, the ofrenda (offering) is arranged in a colorful and symmetrical composition, with key elements reflecting both Christian and indigenous beliefs. An altar laid out on three levels symbolizes the Christian Trinity. In regions where people cling more closely to the beliefs of their indigenous ancestors, displays are often set on five or more tiers, representing distinct phases of the life-death-rebirth cycle.
Brightly colored papel picado tissue paper cut-outs are decorative features that trace back to the Aztec custom of displaying paper banners in major religious rituals. Floral arrangements showcase the fragrant cempazuchitl (marigold), a holdover from pre-Hispanic ceremonies honoring the dead
Components coming from Christian tradition include candles and votive lights representing faith and hope, crosses, and images of saints and holy figures called upon for divine protection of the living and the dead.
Copal incense, burnt to attract the visiting souls and ward off evil spirits, is connected to both Mesoamerican and Catholic practices. Candles, ashes, salt and sugar skulls placed in a cross formation connote the four cardinal points marked in native rituals as well as the prime symbol of Christianity.
The offering invariably includes platters of the dead ones’ favorite foods, concocted predominantly with new world ingredients. Typical goodies include turkey in mole sauce or other dishes flavored with chiles, beans, sweet potatoes or pumpkin chunks stewed in brown sugar syrup, candy skulls made from chocolate or amaranth seeds and honey, and beverages such as atole, pulque and tequila.
The spread also features tamales, a classic ritual food in the pre-Columbian era, and regional versions of the seasonal pan de muerto bread, a culinary contribution of Spanish origin representative of Holy Communion.