To Celebrate Day of the Dead, One Mexican Town Digs Up Its Dead

In the small Mexican town of Pomuch, a centuries-old tradition is still alive and well. Every year, on the eve of the Day of the Dead, residents dig up the remains of their loved ones from the local cemetery and give them a thorough cleaning. The town, located in the state of Campeche, is one of the last places where this ancient custom is still practiced.The tradition, which dates back to the pre-Hispanic era, is rooted in the belief that on November 1st and 2nd, the souls of the deceased return to earth to visit their families. In Pomuch, families take this opportunity to welcome their loved ones back by cleaning and decorating their bones with flowers, candles, and offerings.The process of exhumation and cleaning is a labor of love for the residents of Pomuch. They carefully dig up the remains, wash and dry the bones, and then reassemble the skeletons, often adorning them with clothing and accessories. The cleaned bones are then placed on altars in the town's cemetery, where families hold vigils and offer prayers and food to their deceased loved ones.However, this unique tradition has attracted a new challenge for the town: tourists. In recent years, Pomuch has become a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience of Mexico's rich cultural heritage. While the influx of visitors has brought economic benefits to the town, it has also raised concerns about the impact on the community and the tradition itself.Some residents worry that the growing number of tourists is disrupting the intimate and sacred nature of the tradition. "It's a beautiful custom, but it's also very personal," says one resident. "We don't want it to become a spectacle for outsiders."Despite these concerns, the town is working to find a balance between preserving its cultural heritage and sharing it with the world. By implementing measures to manage tourism and educate visitors about the significance and sensitivity of the tradition, Pomuch aims to ensure that its unique celebration of the Day of the Dead continues to thrive for generations to come.