The Origin of Pan de Muerto: A Transcending Legend

Legend has it that in the distant past, in the lands we know today as Mexico, sacrifices were made in honour of the gods. In these rituals, human hearts were offered, consumed with sesame seeds, in an act that symbolised devotion and gratitude. However, with the arrival of the Spaniards, these ancestral practices were transformed, giving way to a new way of honouring the dead: pan de muerto (bread of the dead).

The Tradition of Offerings

Offerings for the dead have their roots in pre-Hispanic cultures. Among them, one of the most venerated deities was CihuapipiltinThe goddess dedicated to women who died in childbirth. Their souls were believed to wander through the air, causing illness among children. To appease their spirits and avoid their wrath, families offered gifts at temples and crossroads.

These offerings were an act of love and respect, consisting of "loaves" with various figures, such as butterflies or rays, known as xonicuille. These were made from amaranth, a food considered sacred. In addition, they were offered unleavened breada dry, toasted cornbread, which Sahagún described as yotlaxcalli. Also included were tamales (xucuientlamatzoalli) and roasted corn called izquitilAmaranth is the main food in almost all of the offerings.

The Celebration of Huitzilopochtli

The friar Diego de Durán, in his chronicles, relates how during the celebrations in honour of Huitzilopochtli Huitzilopochtlipeople did not eat anything else other than tzoalli with honey. This mixture, based on amaranth and wasp or maguey honey, was used to create a large idol in honour of the god, which was carefully decorated and dressed. At the feet of the idol, large "bones" were placed as part of the offering, along with small tortillas that were shared after the feast. This ritual not only fed the gods, but also strengthened the ties between the living and the dead.

The Evolution of Pan de Muerto

Over time, pan de muerto began to take the form we know today. Its ancient equivalent was the huitlatamallia kind of tamale that was also offered in ceremonies. In pre-Hispanic times, there was the papalotlaxcallior butterfly bread, which was exclusive to these celebrations. This bread was made by stamping a butterfly-shaped stamp on the raw dough, which, when baked, was painted with vibrant colours.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Life and Death

Today, every time we taste a piece of pan de muerto, we not only savour a delicious delicacy, but also pay homage to a rich tradition that has endured over the centuries. This bread is a symbol of the connection between the living and the dead, a reminder that our roots are full of history, love and devotion.

So, this coming Day of the Dead, as you share pan de muerto with your family and friends, remember the profound history that accompanies it. Each bite is a celebration of life, a tribute to those who have departed and a reaffirmation of our cultural traditions - celebrate with joy and keep alive the memory of those we love!

We invite you to get to know the artisan desserts of panquequieres! A delight to the palate.

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