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Cultural tradition · Papantla, Veracruz
Papantla Flyers Ritual
Totonac ritual in which four men descend spinning upside down, attached by ropes, from the top of a pole while a fifth plays flute and drum at the top; a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Papantla Flyers Ritual
The ritual of the flyers is a pre-Hispanic ceremony linked to fertility and the agricultural cycle, preserved by the Totonacs of Papantla and other regions of Mexico. In 2009 it was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
Five men, dressed in red pants, white shirts and hats decorated with ribbons and mirrors, climb a pole about 20 to 30 meters high. At the top, the leader plays flute and drum, dancing on a small platform, facing the four cardinal points.
The other four, tied at the waist with ropes wound around the pole, lean back and descend spinning headfirst, making 13 turns each. Together, the turns total 52, the number of years in the Mesoamerican calendar cycle.
In Papantla, the flyers perform in the plaza next to the Church of the Assumption, especially on festival days, and at the entrance to El Tajín, where they usually perform the ritual several times a day. Above the town, a monument to the flyer marks Papantla's symbol.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 minutes per performance.
Best time
At the entrance to El Tajín, where there are usually several performances a day, or in Papantla's plaza during festivals such as Corpus Christi in June.
How to get there
In Papantla's main plaza next to the Church of the Assumption, and at the entrance to the El Tajín archaeological zone, about 10 km away.
Tip
At the end of the performance, the flyers usually ask for a contribution; it is a way to sustain the tradition.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Papantla Flyers Ritual
How many turns do the flyers make?
Thirteen each, which together total 52, the cycle of the Mesoamerican calendar.
Where to see the flyers?
In Papantla's plaza on festival days, and at the entrance to El Tajín.
Are the flyers a UNESCO heritage?
Yes, as intangible cultural heritage, since 2009.