Mexico

Culture and traditions in Mexico

The cultural life in Mexico reflects the different traditions of all civilizations that settled the country: from indigenous traditions, traces of the Maya civilization and the colonial era up to the modern society.

Culture and tradition are for Mexicans relevant in their lives. In the villages a more traditional way of life is followed by villagers which is quite different in large cities.

Mexico is internationally known for its folk art traditions, mainly indigenous and Spanish crafts and its numerous art institutes and galleries that can be found throughout the country and get a close picture of the Mexican culture.

If you are planning a museum visit in Mexico City, capital of the country, there are more than 150 museums to visit. Some of them are:

• Museum of the City of Mexico (Museo de la Ciudad de Méjico)
• National Museum of the Cultures (Museo Nacional de las Culturas)
• National Museum of Art (Museo Nacional de Arte)
• National Museum of History (Museo Nacional de Historia)
• Museo Rufino Tamayo
• Museo Mural Diego Rivera.

One of the most important traditional celebrations in Mexico is the "Día de los Muertos" (The day of the dead or all Soul's Day) on 2nd November. Private altars are build in honor of the deceased with flowers and favorite foods and beverages of the person who died. This tradition of celebration can be traced back to indigenous rituals.

Another special time in Mexico is Easter which is for Mexicans the most holiest time (one week). During Easter different religious activities in churches and streets take place and it is certainly the time when cities are more quiet than usual as a lot of Mexicans use to travel to other parts of the country (mainly to the coast) to celebrate this festivity.