Riviera Maya is a treasure trove of beautiful beaches with a rich cultural heritage and LocoGringo loves to share these with our readers. Mexico’s Day of the Dead has gained international popularity with the Mexican Catrina becoming its most celebrated spokesperson. Here are 4 interesting facts about the iconic skeletal image making a successful crossover from Dia de Muertos to Halloween.
- The Catrina originated as a satirical cartoon in 1910 critiquing the Mexican population of the time who despised their indigenous roots.
- Created by José Guadalupe Posada, the original version was made in a metal engraving that is currently in the Posada Museum in Aguascalientes, Mexico.
- The "original" Catrina image is shown just from the chest up, adorned only with a hat emphasizing poverty and her desire to belong to another social class.
- Even though “La Catrina” is identified with the Day of the Dead, it originally had no relation to this holiday.
Today, La Catrina is one of the most popular handmade pieces of art found in Mexican Shops and Galleries. It is one of the favorite souvenirs travelers like to take home from their visit to Mexico. In Akumal you can find some of the most beautiful artwork at Galeria Lamanai and Mexicarte. You can even purchase your favorite pieces online from Mexicarte.
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