From Demons to “El Santo”, Lisbon Explores the Mexican Soul

The Mexican imagery is the great protagonist of a Lisbon exhibition that explores several aspects of this rich culture through its singular masks , used both with solemn and recreational purposes.

In total, there are 300 masks in the exhibition titled “From the Carnival to the Lucha Libre. Masks and Mexican Devotions,” currently open in the Museum of Lisbon and organized due to the celebration of Lisbon as Ibero-American Cultural Capital.

The history of the Latin American country and the way in which its culture is manifested are addressed through these pieces, mainly through its rituals and unique traditions .

The relationship between Mexico and other cultures, especially the European, is present in the several “ representations of the Good and Evil ” that are appreciated in the different demon masks displayed.

Beyond the classic traditions of several Mexican towns, the exhibition addresses the contemporary Mexican imagery through its famous Lucha Libre (a Mexican form of professional wrestling) as well.

The intense Mexican devotion for Lucha Libre is explored, and the mask is the protagonist of the show once again. About 60 masks of some of the most iconic wrestlers can be seen, among them “ El Santo ”, “ El Rey Misterio ” or “ Sin Cara ”.

The exhibition has as curators the British Anthropologists Anthony Shelton and Nicola Levell , and it will be open to the public until October 1 .

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