Mojigangas in Patzcuaro
The Mojigangas
(mo-hee-GAHN-gahs) proclaim the proximity of the celebration of Our Lady of Health in Patzcuaro. We see
these giants in the streets of our magical village during the month of November
on weekends. Sunday is the day that traditionally they come out to dance in the
streets, but the most important date is December 8, when we celebrate the coronation of the Virgin.
 |
| Mojigangas in Pátzcuaro, Michocán |
The tradition of the
Mojigangas has persisted for generations; they are yet another example of
the vast and rich culture of Pátzcuaro.
 |
| Mojigangas in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán |
These giants arrived in Mexico (then “New Spain”) from
Spain in the 16th Century (known as Spain’s “Golden Century”),
when Spain was renowned for its advances in the arts, music, and literature.
The name is believed to have originated from Bojiganga
or Boxiganga, which were small street theater groups who produced humorous
plays.
Mojigangas appeared in Mexico
during the time of evangelization, brought by Catholic priests as an instrument
to convert the Indians to Christianity. They have survived in different parts
of Mexico, including Pátzcuaro, San
Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca, and Zacualpan.
Don't be surprised if when you take a walk
during this season through the Vasco de Quiroga Square opposite our Hotel Mansion Iturbe, and suddenly you hear music and see these huge giants
lumbering close by.
Mojigangas are made of
cardboard and reeds to keep them as light as possible. An individual
carries one on his shoulders, walking comically (no stilts) to the beat of the
music of the band, while passers-by snapping up pictures of these wild
creatures.
 |
| Mojigangas en Pátzcuaro, Michoacán |
On 8 December the Mojigangas enter the Basilica
grounds to dance in honor of the Virgin Mary, and are promptly retired to wait
for the next year.
In this season of celebrations in honor of our Lady of Health in Pátzcuaro, give
yourself time to learn more about the culture and traditions of our magical
people through their traditions and religious activities.
 |
| Mojigangas in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán |
*Text and pictures property of Hotel Mansión Iturbe in Pátzcuaro.
We invite you to check more post in our blog, you will find information about Pátzcuaro and its surroundings that we hope will be useful for your next trip to our colonial town in Mexico.
Here are some post that we suggest you:
Hotel Mansion Iturbe
Portal Morelos 59
Plaza Vasco de Quiroga
61600 Patzcuaro, Michoacan
Mexico
For more information about our Hotel in Patzcuaro
Reservations online at Hotel Mansion Iturbe
Tels: +52 (434) 342 0368 / 342 3628
Fax: +52 (434) 342 3627
Toll free fax number from USA & CANADA: 1-866 678 6102
GDS CODES
Amadeus: ON MLMMAN
Sabre: ON 16297
Amadeus: ON MLMMAN
Sabre: ON 16297
Entradas
Comentarios