THE AZTEC CONCHEROS | Mexico City

The Concheros dance, also known as the dance of the Chichimecas, Aztecas and Mexicas, is an important traditional dance and ceremony which has been performed in Mexico since early in the colonial period. It consists of syncretic features, both pre-Hispanic and Christian.

It apparently originated in 1522, after the Spanish conquest of the Chichimec tribe, as a means of continuing ancient ritual.The Zocalo is central to Mexico's political and cultural identity as it marks the historical center of Mexico City and the center of the Aztec city-state of Tenochtitlan.

During the dances, ritualistic spirit cleansing is administered by some of the Concheros. This is done using tree leaves to fan the incense smoke over the bodies of those who seek the energy and the cleansing. Traditional herbs, such as basil, are used for the incense.

For larger photographs:

The Aztec Concheros by Tewfic El-Sawy on Exposure