Traditions of La Estrella: ceremonies and rituals in Iztapalapa

Las traditions of La Estrella on the Cerro de la Estrella, Iztapalapa, are a fertile field of cultural and spiritual richness. These traditions not only reflect the history of a people but also highlight the deep connection between human beings and the cosmos.

Through ceremonies, rituals, and festivities, the community revives an ancestral heritage that has endured over the years.

From Day of the Dead celebrations in Tláhuac to the significant lighting of the New Fire, each custom tells a unique story. In this article, we will explore the main traditions and their significance, as well as how they have evolved over time.

What are the main traditions on Cerro de la Estrella?

Las traditions on Cerro de la Estrella are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Here, ceremonies and rituals intertwine, creating a tapestry of meaning and connection. Among the main traditions are:

• The ceremonies of the New Fire, which mark the cyclical renewal of time.
• The celebrations of the Day of the Dead, where the deceased are honored.
• Rituals incorporating elements of Mexican astronomy and mythology.

Cerro de la Estrella is not just a physical place but a symbol of the spirituality that unites the community. The blend of pre-Hispanic and Catholic beliefs gives rise to a series of festivities that reflect the cultural identity of the people.

The importance of these traditions lies in their ability to transmit values and beliefs from generation to generation. The inhabitants of Iztapalapa keep these practices alive, ensuring that history is not lost over time.

How is Day of the Dead celebrated in Tláhuac?

El Day of the Dead in Tláhuac is one of the most significant and emotional celebrations. During this festivity, families prepare altars decorated with offerings to honor their departed loved ones.

This event mixes elements of indigenous culture and Catholicism, creating a unique celebration rich in symbolism.

One of the highlights of this celebration is the making of wooden stars decorated with Chinese paper, which symbolize the guidance of the dead towards the Mictlán.

These stars are not just decorative; they have a deep meaning related to spirituality and the connection between worlds.

• Traditional foods such as pan de muerto and sugar skulls are prepared.
• Families decorate their homes and graves with marigold flowers.
• Candles illuminate the altars, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence.

The celebration of the Day of the Dead is a moment of recognition and love for the deceased, turning it into a festivity that reinforces family unity and the collective memory of the community.

What do wooden stars mean in the celebrations?

Las wooden stars are a distinctive element in the Day of the Dead celebrations and other festivities in Iztapalapa.

These stars, decorated with vibrant colors, represent the path that the deceased must follow to return to the world of the living. They are seen as a symbol of light and hope.

The use of wooden stars has deep roots in Mexican culture, linking with pre-Hispanic beliefs about the cosmos and the afterlife. It is believed that each star guides souls during their journey, making their path easier and less confusing.

Moreover, these stars are a manifestation of the creativity and talent of local artisans, who craft them with great dedication. This highlights the importance of traditional craftsmanship in Mexican culture.

• The stars are placed on altars in honor of the deceased.
• They are used in various ceremonies throughout the year.
• They symbolize the connection between the earthly and the spiritual worlds.

Therefore, wooden stars are not just decorative, but also carry with them a profound cultural and spiritual significance, reinforcing the idea that each tradition has a story to tell.

What is the story behind the lighting of the New Fire?

El lighting of the New Fire is a ceremony that takes place every 52 years and symbolizes the rebirth and renewal of life. This tradition has its origins in the Mexica worldview, which understood time as a cycle.

The new fire is essentially a celebration of the continuity of life and the relationship between humans and the cosmos.

During this ceremony, a priest is responsible for lighting the fire at the top of Cerro de la Estrella. This fire will be used to light the torches taken back to the communities, symbolizing light and hope for the coming years.

• The ritual is celebrated with traditional dances and music.
• Offerings are made to the gods in gratitude for the continuity of life.
• It is a community event that brings together people from various parts of the city.

El lighting of the New Fire not only has a spiritual meaning but is also a reminder of the importance of community and the union among its members in celebrating their cultural heritage.

What is the relationship between stars and Mexican mythology?

Las stars have a fundamental place in Mexican mythology. They represent not only celestial bodies but also deities and symbols of life and death. The pre-Hispanic vision of the universe was filled with astral deities that influenced the daily lives of people.

The stars were seen as messengers of the gods, and their layout in the sky dictated the seasons and agricultural cycles. Thus, the study of stars became an essential part of the culture and religion of indigenous communities.

• Each star had a particular meaning in the ceremonies.
• Astronomical rituals were performed during key events of the agricultural calendar.
• Stories about the stars were passed down orally, enriching the culture.

La relationship between stars and Mexican mythology continues to be a topic of interest and study, evidencing how spirituality and astronomy are intrinsically linked in the cultural tradition of Mexico.

How have traditions been maintained over the years?

Las traditions of La Estrella have managed to stay alive despite the passage of time and cultural changes. This is due to the strong connection that the communities have with their heritage and the importance they place on passing this knowledge to new generations.

The commitment of the inhabitants of Iztapalapa to maintain their traditions is reflected in education and community participation. Workshops and events are organized where young people can learn about the ceremonies, rituals, and the creation of symbolic elements, such as wooden stars.

• Communities actively participate in organizing festivities.
• Programs have been implemented for the preservation of culture.
• Social networks have helped spread and revitalize these traditions.

Additionally, the celebration of events and festivals at the Cerro de la Estrella attracts both locals and tourists, creating a space where these traditions can be experienced and appreciated. In this way, it is ensured that the traditions of La Estrella continue to be an important pillar in Mexican culture.

To learn more about the traditions of La Estrella, we invite you to enjoy the following video: