A country in America that is popular due to its rich Catholic tradition and colorful fiestas that showcase culture is none other than Mexico. These festivals are originated from the Mexican history and it could be showcased in the form of parades, dances and other activities such as contests. Mexican festivals are visually known to have colorful displays of flags which are called papel picado or basically just papers that are perforated. It is said that this tradition was passed from generations to generations, originated form the Aztecs.
Aztecs, ancient people seen in Mexico, used flags made by a material called amatl which are a bark-mulch paper flags that has drawings or designs of Aztecs gods.
These flags from Aztecs time evolved when Spaniards brought a new method of paper cutting that started from China. Through this flags began to have a sophisticated look and easier to make. These are what we can see now as decorations put up during Catholic festivals. Flags were improved as the papel picado are layered to top an image template to carve the design through the use of fine knives, chisels, and awls. According to Dale Hoyt Palfrey, an American writer from Mexico, the flag colors and designs were generally of flowers, foliage, angels, crosses, skeletons or images that relate to the country’s history. Another very popular Mexican flag design are the ones with the image of the Virgin Mary.
To find where papel picado can be found most, try and visit San Salvador Huixcolotla which is located in Puebla state.