Late October is the season for the Mexicans to buy bread topped with bone-shaped decoration to mark the Day of the Dead, a traditional festival on November 1 and 2 to memorize deceased family members and friends.
For a bakery like the San Damiano in downtown Mexico City, this isits high season and the chief baker just can't get his hands off the table.
(Soundbite) Arcadio Mena, Master Baker
"This tradition has been established for many years. First the bread is molded, and then the bones are set on it. After the pieces are placed, it is ready for baking. After it is well baked and turns cool slightly, I will put on some butter and sugar. Then it is ready."
Regular-size bread of this particular shape sells the best, while large pieces are also made for sharing within a big family.
The Day of the Dead is one of the important festivals among the Mexicans. It has been declared an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations to highlight and preserve its unique status of death cult.
