# Discovering the Museo Nacional de la Muerte: An Extraordinary Exploration of Mexico’s Connection with Death
Nestled in the heart of central Mexico, away from the typical tourist routes, lies an invaluable treasure that reveals the country’s distinctive bond with death: the **Museo Nacional de la Muerte** (National Museum of Death) in Aguascalientes. Opened in 2007, this museum is essential for anyone fascinated by Mexico’s cultural customs, particularly its profound, often humorous, relationship with mortality.
### Mexico’s Distinct Perspective on Death
To comprehend the existence of a museum focused on death in Mexico, one must first recognize the nation’s cultural viewpoint on the matter. In contrast to numerous other societies that perceive death with trepidation or sorrow, Mexico possesses a rich tradition of accepting death as an integral aspect of existence. This is prominently showcased during the annual **Día de los Muertos** (Day of the Dead) celebrations when families commemorate their departed loved ones with vibrant altars, offerings, and festivities. The holiday is a moment for reflection, yet also for happiness, embodying the belief that the deceased return to briefly reconnect with the living.
This distinctive view on death permeates the **Museo Nacional de la Muerte**, where skeletons are frequently portrayed in amusing or playful contexts, illustrating the Mexican conviction that death should not be dreaded, but rather seen as a continuation of life’s path.
### The Museum’s Inception
Founded as part of the **University of Aguascalientes**, the museum was initially designed to showcase the vast collection of death-themed artworks and relics passed down from the esteemed Mexican artist **Octavio Bajonero Gil**. As time progressed, the museum has greatly expanded, tripling its exhibit space and enhancing its collection to encompass a myriad of artistic reflections on death, ranging from ancient Mesoamerican pieces to modern creations.
The museum’s display is now arranged thematically, providing guests with an in-depth exploration of how death has been perceived and depicted throughout Mexican history. From pre-Columbian eras to contemporary times, the exhibits offer a captivating perspective on how death has influenced Mexican culture and artistry.
### What Awaits You at the Museum of Death
Despite its grave thematic focus, the **Museo Nacional de la Muerte** is far from somber. In fact, many displays are animated and even lighthearted, featuring skeletons in various lively, everyday situations. Visitors will come across skeletons cycling, attending church, sharing family meals, and even indulging in romantic encounters. These cheerful portrayals of death highlight Mexico’s longstanding practice of employing humor to navigate the certainty of mortality.
The museum’s exhibits are varied, including **sculptures, paintings, and paper mache** artworks, as well as **wood carvings** and **Mayan artifacts**. A particularly captivating item is a **mysterious crystal skull** from Mayan civilization, adding intrigue to the collection. Additionally, rotating exhibitions in the museum’s newer sections delve into diverse facets of death-related art and culture.
A standout figure in the museum is **La Catrina**, the sophisticated skeleton woman who has become emblematic of Día de los Muertos. La Catrina gained fame through Mexican illustrator **José Guadalupe Posada**, whose original lithographs can be found in a nearby museum dedicated to his artistry. Posada’s satirical portrayals of skeletons attired in elaborate clothing played a significant role in shaping the modern Mexican perception of death as something to celebrate instead of dread.
### A Family-Friendly Environment
Although the theme may appear eerie, the **Museo Nacional de la Muerte** is remarkably suitable for families. The whimsical character of many displays creates an entertaining experience for visitors of all ages, including young children. The museum is also relatively compact, allowing for a manageable exploration of approximately an hour without the feeling of being overwhelmed.
For those curious about the historical and cultural dimensions of death, the museum provides a well-structured narrative that follows the development of death-related art and customs in Mexico. From ancient **Maya and Aztec** artifacts to modern folk art, the exhibits offer a rich and enlightening experience for individuals looking to dive deeper into the topic.
### Essential Information for Visitors
The **Museo Nacional de la Muerte** is situated in the historical center of Aguascalientes, on the corner of **Rivero and Gutiérrez Esq. Morelos**. Open from **10 a.m. to 6 p.m.**, Tuesday through Sunday, the entrance fee is incredibly reasonable. Adults can enter for just **40 pesos** (approximately $2.50 USD), while students, teachers, and children under 12 enjoy admission for only **20 pesos** (a little over $1 USD).
Aguascalientes itself may not be a prominent tourist hotspot,