Retablos

The original meaning of the term “retablo” referrs to sculptures or paintings that were placed behind altars of Catholic churches. Retablos are important to Mexican folk religion because they are a physical representation of holy images such as the Christ, the Virgin Mother, or one of many other saints. Creating retablos or ex-votos was a way of showing appreciation to the gods for bringing rain or helping crops grow. They evolved from the need most humans have, to interact on a personal level with the divine.