Giant skeleton figures rise above marigold fields ahead of Mexico’s Day of the Dead

Giant skeleton sculptures inspired by pre-Hispanic deities drew tourists to the town of Atlixco, in Mexico's central state of Puebla, on Tuesday (October 27) as part of the sixth edition of the "Valle de Catrinas" festival, which is linked to Day of the Dead celebrations. 

The monumental figures, some of them almost 10 meters tall, were installed in squares, streets and fields of marigolds (known in Mexico as cempasuchil). Mexican and foreign visitors walked among the structures to photograph them and learn about figures such as Tonatiuh, Itzpapalotl, Tezcatlipoca and Tzinacantecuhtli. 

Architect Jared Barojas, who created the figure of Itzpapalotl, said building a large-scale work inspired by Mexican traditions was a way of helping preserve the culture and customs tied to the holiday. 

Day of the Dead, celebrated on November 1 and 2, is one of Mexico's most deeply rooted traditions and was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. During those days, millions of people across the country remember deceased relatives with offerings, flowers, candles and cultural activities.

Camera: Daniel Becerril, Camera and Production: Alberto Fajardo, Editing: Hugo Monnet/Reuters