One of the most popular traditions Not only from Oaxaca, but of the country, is the Guelaguetza, whose origin dates back to the pre -Hispanic era.
Popular celebrations like he Bani Stai Gulal and on Monday of Cerro, in addition to the races, They are part of this great celebration full of dances, color and flavor.
Know the origin of one of the most important traditions of Oaxaca: La Guelaguetza. Phil Clarke Hill / Getty Images.
What is Guelaguetza?
One of the most popular traditions of the state of Oaxaca is the Guelaguetza, whose word of the Zapotec Guendalezaa It means offering, present or compliance.
Also known as «Cerro's Monday party»this consists of folk, cultural and sports presentations.
The origin of the Guelaguetza
La Guelaguetza It is a tradition whose origin dates back to the Mexican conquest in Oaxaca. At that time, the Zapoteca culture made a ritual called Daninayaaloani or «Cerro de Bella Vista», an event in honor of the goddess of corn, Centéotl. Thus, every year they made this celebration with dances, rites and banquets, which lasted eight days.
When and where is Guelaguetza celebrated?
The first celebration of the Guelaguetza It was carried out in 1932; However, for several decades, The Guelaguetza celebrates the two Monday after July 16, With the exception of when he falls on July 18, since being the Luc as an universary of Benito Juárez, he postponed one week.
It is worth mentioning that this tradition It is part of the popular cults to the Virgen del Carmen, Because the two most close Monday is celebrated to this Catholic holiday on July 16.
Although the seven regions of Oaxaca participate in the Guelaguetza, it is carried out in «Auditorium Guelaguetza», located on the Cerro del Fortín, in the Sierra Madre del Sur of the capital of this state.