Attraction Guide: Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato (Mummy Museum), Guanajuato, Mexico

Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato (Mummy Museum) Guide

Museo de las Momias: A Chilling Glimpse into Guanajuato's Past Guide

Prepare for a truly unique and somewhat unsettling experience at the Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato, or the Mummy Museum. This museum houses a collection of naturally mummified bodies, exhumed from the local cemetery. It's not for the faint of heart, but it offers a fascinating, albeit macabre, glimpse into the history and culture of Guanajuato. The museum is one of the city's most popular attractions, drawing visitors from all over the world. The mummies originated from the cholera outbreak of 1833. Due to a lack of space in the local cemetery, a law was enacted requiring families to pay a tax to keep their deceased relatives buried. If the tax wasn't paid, the bodies were exhumed. The dry climate and mineral-rich soil of Guanajuato led to the natural mummification of many of these bodies. The first mummies were put on display in the late 19th century, and the museum officially opened in the mid-20th century. The mummies offer a glimpse into the clothing, dental health, and even the facial expressions of people who lived in Guanajuato centuries ago. Visiting the Museo de las Momias is a straightforward experience. You'll walk through the museum, observing the mummies displayed in glass cases. The museum provides information about each mummy, including their name (if known) and cause of death. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the museum, Guanajuato is known for its delicious street food. Be sure to try enchiladas mineras, a local specialty, or indulge in some churros with chocolate.