As we move beyond Day of Death celebrations worldwide, it’s important to note that the symbol of this cherished holiday tradition has its roots in the magical state of Aguascalientes, Mexico.
Yes,  the ‘Catrina’ and ‘Catrin’ originated in the vibrant Mexican state and were first created by native son Jose Guadalupe Posada Aguilar.

We recently visited the  Jose Guadalupe Posada  Museum and “the land of the good people” to learn all about its history and the legendary heritage that make it an unforgettable destination for your next escape.

Aguascalientes is in the north-central part of the country, bordered by Zacatecas to the north, east and west, and by Jalisco to the south.
The name means “hot waters,” and originated from the abundance of hot springs originally found in the area. It is also one of the smallest states of Mexico (27th most populated state and the 29th biggest state by area).

The José Guadalupe Posada Museum is in the Encino neighborhood, home to the Templo del Señor del Encino, one of the most emblematic churches in Aguascalientes with a beautiful stone facade, and magnificent dome.

Now, back to Catrina.
The figure is ever present, especially during the end of October and early November. It is Posada’s most recognizable creation and the symbol of Day of the Dead. La Catrina is endlessly reproduced in ceramic toys, figurines, posters, wall ornaments and other crafts. It is utilized in murals, paintings and is one of Mexico’s most popular symbols, along with the Mariachi, and Our Lady of Guadalupe.

The image gained popularity in the  late ’40s , when Diego Rivera immortalized it in his work. La Catrina became the focal point of one of his most famous murals, “Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park.” The mural portrays Mexican history from the Spanish conquest to the Mexican Revolution.

La Catrina stands at the center of this history, where Rivera painted her holding hands with Posada on one side and a boyhood version of himself on the other.

But it was Posada that first originated the design. He used skulls and bones in caricatures for political and cultural critiques, demonstrating that regardless of class or status underneath we are all the same.

La Calavera Catrina was first created around 1910 and published posthumously in 1913.
The garish skeleton with a wide, toothy grin and an oversized feathered hat was a reference to high society’s obsession with European customs.

Her name ‘Catrina’ comes from the slang ‘catrin’ which referred to a well-dressed man or woman.
Originally it was part of Posada’s series of satirical lithographs that addressed political and societal issues and were published for the masses in the Mexican press.

Today you can be part of history, visit the museum, and see the origins of one of Mexico’s most significant symbols.
The museum houses hundreds of original works by the eminent Mexican political printmaker whose art has influenced numerous Latin American artists and cartoonists.

Posada died in 1913 in relative obscurity, and like most artists, without the recognition and acclaim he deserved.
Now, thanks to Jose Guadalupe Posada Museum in Aguascalientes his artistic legacy will live on forever.

JOSE GUADALUPE POSADA MUSEUM
Lado norte Jardín del Encino s/n, Dr Jesús Díaz de León, Barrio Del Encino
Barrio del Encino, 20240 Aguascalientes, Ags., Mexico