Since appearing as a public shrine in 2001, the female death deity’s popularity has exploded and is a frequent sight in public ceremonies such as the Day of the Dead.

YouTube video by Frances Billinghurst

This book documents the rapidly growing Mexican folk faith that is 'Santa Muerte' or 'Saint Death'. The iconic image of the skulled woman with a scythe gives hope to many discomforted souls on the fringes of Mexican and indeed global society. From the origins of death cults across the world, to the exploration of the faith's pre-Colombian roots, the author (not a follower of Santa Muerte) assesses what draws followers to the dark mistress.

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