Category Archives: Regional Variations

The regions discussed are located in the following States Veracruz–yellow Puebla–red Guerrero–green Oaxaca–pink Link: Interactive Map of Mexico (Scroll down to find virtual tours of Mexican cities and interactive state map down to find virtual tours of Mexican cities)

In the Mexican state of Veracruz, the towns of Xalapa and Papantla have residents who are descendants of the Totonac, native inhabitants of Veracruz. The descendants have retained ancient practices including their language in spite of the Spanish conquistadors and … Continue reading →

In the town of Huaquechula, situated between the volcanoes of Ixtaccihuatl, Popocatepetl, and Malintzin in the State of Puebla, colorful polychrome pottery made specifically for the altars or ofrendas can be found in the markets. Painted with gloss or mat … Continue reading →

In the State of Guerrero, the town of Iguala creates special offerings for those who have died within the year. The altars are called tumbas or tombs and tumbas vivientes or living tombs. These tombs or tumbas are created by … Continue reading →

Oaxacans typically build an altar in their homes using a table with boxes covered in white cloth, representing the gravesites of their lost loved ones. Oaxaca is a favorite destination of tourists who wish to observe the Oaxacan celebrations for … Continue reading →

“Urban Mexicans encounter death with fun and games, while rural Indians encounter it with absolute tranquility.” (Frances Toor, Artes de Mexico, 2002, Numero 62, p 66.) In the cities the celebrations may not be taken as seriously as in the … Continue reading →