In Santiago Xalitzintla and Pedro Yancuitlalpan, the locals have the tradition of climbing the Popocatépetl volcano annually to celebrate its birthday. Despite the obstacles this year, a young man from Pedro Yancuitlalpan ignored the authorities' blockades and reached the volcano's crater to leave an offering for the anniversary of the giant.
Once at the top, the young man took out his cell phone to record the moment and expressed his shivering: "We brought an offering all the way up to the crater, we hope he is happy." His face reflected nervousness and heavy breathing in the imposing presence of the volcano.
The video of the young man at the Popocatépetl crater was published by journalist Helisut Córdova on social media, generating various reactions among users. Some expressed concern for the young man’s health due to the altitude, while others mocked the situation.
Despite the controversy, the moment was recorded and went viral on social media despite the authorities' blockades. The visit to the volcano took place on March 12 and provoked divided opinions among internet users.
The celebration of "Don Goyo," as Popocatépetl is known, takes place every March 12, when the inhabitants of nearby communities climb the volcano to perform rituals and offerings. Although authorities closed access routes due to recent volcanic activity, some locals still managed to reach the crater.
Popocatépetl, approximately 730,000 years old, is venerated on the day of Saint Gregory the Great. Despite the fear it inspires due to its volcanic activity, the inhabitants of the area keep the tradition of celebrating its birthday with respect and devotion.
