Chapter 1
The Aztec underworld and the nine levels of Mictlan
Chapter 2
Maya and Purepecha paths through the underworld
Chapter 3
The colonial meeting and the blending of traditions
Chapter 4
Modern altars and global tables of remembrance
YOUR GOAL
Master of The long road to Mictlan and the modern celebration of death
Ch 4 · Modern altars and global tables of remembrance
mankai Altars of Remembrance
It's not the end, it's not the end / We build an altar for your soul
mankai During this famous Mexican celebration in Michoacán, families cover graves with marigolds and thousands of candles while sharing
BETA
mankai Place sacred offerings to discover how ancient afterlife beliefs evolved into modern traditions.
Fun Fact
La Catrina: The famous skeleton lady, La Catrina, originally wore a fancy French hat to satirize wealthy Mexicans trying to look European.
Glossary
ofrenda (noun)
An offering of food, flowers, and personal items placed on an altar to honor the deceased. In 2023, Mexico City's Zócalo featured a monumental ofrenda with a giant sculpture honoring revolutionary Pancho Villa.
An offering of food, flowers, and personal items placed on an altar to honor the deceased. In 2023, Mexico City's Zócalo featured a monumental ofrenda with a giant sculpture honoring revolutionary Pancho Villa.
Quiz
Which Mexican artist created the original 1910 etching of the skeleton that became La Catrina?
Quiz
Which group of deceased loved ones is traditionally honored on November 1st during the celebration?
Quiz
Which four natural elements must be physically represented on a traditional Day of the Dead altar?
Quiz
Which global organization declared Mexico's Day of the Dead an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2008?
Quiz
What does the delicate papel picado (chiseled paper) represent on a Day of the Dead altar?
Quiz
On which famous island in Michoacán do families spend the night of November 1st illuminating graves?