What is a Mojiganga and Why are They Seen All Over San Miguel de Allende?

Image: ​​@mojiganga_estudio

Have you ever seen a mojiganga in the streets of Mexico?


Mojigangas are giant puppets (approximately 15 feet tall!) created using cardboard materials.


They originated from Spain and were brought to Mexico around the 1600s.

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Today, you can spot them in the streets of San Miguel de Allende during a “callejoneada” (a walking parade) or for weddings and other fiestas.


In Spain, the puppets were used to make fun of public figures or for comedic relief during religious pilgrimages.

Image: ​​@mojiganga_estudio
Mojigangas symbolize joy and are often use to parody iconic figures like La Catrina, Frida, and los novios (wedding couples).
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You can find them dancing down cobblestones streets during town festivals, often accompanied by mariachis.


Mojigangas can be found all throughout Mexico (but depending on the region, they refer to them by different names).


They have become especially popular in San Miguel de Allende where they have been used in celebrations for more than 100 years!


The mojigangas in the image above were created by Mojiganga Estudio —a 3rd generation “mojigangera” artisan family located in San Miguel de Allende.

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About the Author

LUISA NAVARRO

Mexican-American journalist, former national news producer, and graduate of Boston College and Columbia University School of Journalism. Her mission is to shed more light on the beauty and traditions of Mexican culture. This website is dedicated to her grandmothers, Tita Susana and Tita Lupita, who taught her to be proud of her heritage and to always remember where her ancestors came from.

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