Altar to the Dead at Cat Mountain in El Retiro Park (2024)

The Day of the Dead, a celebration honouring the departed, takes place on 1 and 2 November. In 2003, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognised the festivity as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. The ofrenda, or altar to the dead, symbolises the journey of the deceased as they return to visit the living, who welcome them with joy, food and offerings to ensure a safe passage back to their resting place. This deeply rooted tradition is observed in Mexico and other parts of Central America. In 2024, Madrid City Council, through its Department of Culture, Tourism and Sport, joined the Day of the Dead celebrations by unveiling three new altars, which complemented the long-standing ofrenda displayed at Teatro Fernán Gómez.