Mexico adds to its list of contributions to the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The Passion of Christ in Iztapalapa, the most popular Via Crucis in the country, was recognized this Wednesday by UNESCO as “a community tradition that brings residents together in an expression of faith, identity and culture.” The United Nations has included the performance that takes place during Holy Week on its Representative List, an inventory that gives it global recognition and reinforces the commitment of the country and organizers to protect it. “Beyond its religious roots, this element promotes community cohesion, promotes solidarity and preserves cultural heritage thanks to its link with traditional arts and crafts,” underlines UNESCO in the candidacy promoted by both the organizing committee and the Ministry of Culture, as well as by the government of Mexico City and the town hall of Iztapalapa.
According to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the Passion of Iztapalapa began in 1843 following the fulfillment of a promise made to the Lord of the Cuevita – a representation of Jesus venerated in the town hall – after overcoming a cholera epidemic. The show, which transforms squares and streets into biblical scenes during Holy Week, is inspired by the viceregal evangelizing theater and is organized by residents of the eight neighborhoods of Iztapalapa. While some act as actors, others are responsible for the set, the sets, the costumes or even the sculpture of the cross that Jesus carries on his back.
Although the most visible part of the Iztapalapa Passion takes place on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday with the performance of the Last Supper, the trial of Jesus and his crucifixion, preparations begin in December with logistics, the assignment of roles and the start of rehearsals. Although it is a large-scale event, the organizing committee requires that participants be natives and residents of one of the neighborhoods of Iztapalapa. “Over time, this performance has become an important cultural event that attracts millions of visitors each year,” underlines the United Nations agency in the nomination.
During her morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum congratulated the organizing committee and the institutions responsible for managing the bid, while Claudia Curiel de Icaza, Secretary of Culture, celebrated the “historic recognition that honors nearly two centuries of tradition, faith, identity and community organizing.” With its inscription on the UNESCO Representative List, the Passion of Christ in Iztapalapa joins other cultural events in the country recognized by the organization such as the Day of the Dead, mariachi, charrería or traditional Mexican cuisine.
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