Dia de los Muertos

Dia de los Muertos
Originally uploaded by nieve44.

In honor of

All Souls Day...

my makeshift altar for

Dia de los Muertos.

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See flickr for other detail of

altar.

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A real altar would be elaborately detailed

with several layers of decorations,

which would include photos, flowers, drink,

and other favorite foods or items

that belonged to the deceased.

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It is believed that the departed soul returns to visit their loved ones and thus in their honor altars are displayed at the home. In Mexico and other parts of Latin America, cemetaries are elaborately detailed and adorned in anticipation of their return from the other side. This day is a national holiday and is one of celebration that mocks death. For death is a part of life and not feared as in other parts of the world. Now, I'm off to drink a good tequila.