Dia de los Muertos symbolism

Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio ~ 8x10 inches

Dia de los Muertos Altars are a big part of Day of the Dead in San Miguel de Allende, with each item on the altar, filled with significance. Here are a few of the symbols commonly used:

A photo of the deceased (the altar can have multiple pictures and represent more than one ancestor or if there are no photos on an altar it is understood that it is in honor of all your ancestors)

 detail of Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio

A bell to signal the location, so the spirits can find their way back to earth

 detail of Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio

Marigolds to scent the night (and remind us of the impermanence of life)

 detail of Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio

A ladder for the journey back to earth and candles to light the way.
Food for nourishment while on earth

 detail of Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio

Aztec dog to guard the altar and coins for spending money while on earth

 detail of Ensenada Altar by Jane LaFazio

Sugar skulls for decoration

and a few more:
Favorite items, hobbies, food or drink that the deceased enjoyed
Incense: it is customary to burn copal incense,which clears the space of any negative energy or bad spirits and helps the dead find their way.
Pan de muertos: a special Day of the Dead Bread
A glass of water: Water is the source of life and represents purity. It quenches the thirst of the spirits.