Mexico City has set a new Guinness World Record with the unveiling of a 33.4-metre Catrina in the heart of the capital. The towering skeleton, a traditional symbol of Día de Muertos, now dominates the Zócalo, the city's main square, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike.
The Catrina, a figure originally popularized by Mexican illustrator José Guadalupe Posada, is a satirical representation of death that has become an iconic part of the country's Day of the Dead festivities. This year's record-breaking version stands as a testament to the enduring cultural significance of the holiday, which is celebrated across Mexico and increasingly recognized worldwide.
A celebration of life and death
The installation is surrounded by thousands of vibrant marigolds, known as cempasúchil, whose bright orange petals are believed to guide the spirits of the deceased back to the world of the living. The flowers, along with the Catrina's elaborate dress and feathered headdress, create a striking visual spectacle that honors the Mexican tradition of remembering and celebrating those who have passed.
Día de Muertos, which takes place on November 1 and 2, is a time when families build altars, offer food and drink to their departed loved ones, and decorate graves with flowers and candles. The holiday has deep roots in indigenous Mexican culture, blending pre-Hispanic rituals with Catholic traditions brought by Spanish colonizers.
The record-breaking Catrina is part of a broader effort by Mexico City's government to promote the holiday as a major cultural attraction. The Zócalo, already a hub of political and social life, has been transformed into a vibrant celebration space, with music, dance, and traditional performances scheduled throughout the week.
While the Catrina is a distinctly Mexican symbol, its appeal has crossed borders. In recent years, Día de Muertos celebrations have gained popularity in European cities with large Mexican communities, such as Madrid and London. Madrid's Casa de México has unveiled its own Day of the Dead altar, honoring the composer Agustín Lara, as part of the city's growing recognition of the holiday.
The Mexican government has also used the occasion to highlight cultural ties with Europe. Earlier this year, President Claudia Sheinbaum responded to criticism from former US President Donald Trump over the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, emphasizing the importance of cultural diplomacy. The Day of the Dead celebrations, with their global resonance, serve as a reminder of Mexico's rich heritage and its ability to engage with international audiences.
The Guinness World Record for the tallest Catrina was previously held by a 20-metre figure in the city of Aguascalientes. The new record in Mexico City underscores the capital's ambition to position itself as the epicenter of Día de Muertos celebrations, drawing visitors from around the world.
For many Mexicans, the Catrina is more than just a decorative figure; it is a symbol of the country's unique relationship with death. As one local resident put it, "We don't see death as an end, but as a continuation of life in another form. The Catrina reminds us to laugh at death, to not take ourselves too seriously."
The installation will remain in the Zócalo until after the Day of the Dead festivities conclude, allowing both residents and visitors to experience the grandeur of this year's celebration. With its record-breaking height and stunning floral display, the Catrina is set to become one of the most photographed landmarks of the season.
