An Ancient Mexican Ritual: The Unique Bone Cleaning Tradition of Pomuch
In the heart of Eastern Mexico lies the town of Pomuch, a place where the celebration of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) transcends common understanding. Here, families engage in an extraordinary annual ritual: the meticulous cleaning of their deceased relatives’ bones.
This powerful tradition, steeped in centuries of history and profound respect for ancestors, offers a unique window into the cultural tapestry of Mexico. Each year, as November approaches, loved ones gather to honor those who have passed by carefully exhuming, cleaning, and re-dressing the skeletal remains of their kin.
Originally a deeply personal and sacred practice, this annual rite is now navigating a new, complex challenge: the rising tide of tourism. As more outsiders seek to witness this one-of-a-kind observance, the community of Pomuch grapples with balancing the preservation of their sacred customs against the curiosity of the modern world.
Join us as Jack Nicas, our Mexico City bureau chief, ventures into Pomuch to explore this compelling intersection of ancient ritual and contemporary life. This video offers an intimate look at a community dedicated to honoring their dead in a truly unforgettable way.