Different Types Of Santa Muerte Altars

There are many different types of Santa Muerte Altars. What is an altar anyways?

Think of it as the space where Santa Muerte resides. It’s her domain, safe space, and portal for us to connect with her.

Each one serves a different purpose. Each unique depending on the devotee as well. One type of altar isn’t better than the other. Most altars are made within the means of the devotee. Not everyone can afford elaborate altars, doesn’t make them any less devoted though.

Like mentioned above, devotional altars are for honoring mama. It’s important to note as well within our path; at the start comes venerating her. This means getting to know her, connecting with her energy, showing love, appreciation. That’s why a devotional altar is a great place to start.

There’s not pressure for you to have it right, or perfect, but it’s the place where you can lay all your love to mama. Showering her with gifts comes natural, We know our queen loves roses, candies, art made in her honor, cigars, liquor, etc. But with that, it is also the place where we place our hearts. Nothing physical is expected, just the act of opening your heart to recieve through sharing. This is sometimes the words of gratitude because she’s carried us through the dark. Whatever it may be, this is where you place it.

A working altar is for when you have Santa Muerte’s permission to do spiritual work. This spiritual work is either for yourself, clients, or loved ones.

A working altar usually is private because any type of work done spiritually should be kept from the eyes of others, especially if you’re doing work for clients. You don’t want any external interference.

You will see as well on these altars the offerings will reflect the work being done on the altar. These are also altars that need to be cleansed more often, and keeping your protections in place again especially if you’re doing work for others.

A public altar can serve as either a public working altar, or just a public devotional altar, in some cases both. These altars are usually placed in botanicas, have multiple statues, and are maximalist in a sense. In Mexico you will sometimes see these altars outside. One of the first ever public altars was made by Doña Queta. She is a big part of Santa Muerte devotion being public. Now there are many public altars for people that may not have access to an altar themselves.

These altars are set up to where people can leave offerings such as candles, tobacco, liquor, and even money. People will sometimes leave petitions as well, if the altar allows for it, and if people feel comfortable. Public devotional altars do have rules in place, depending where they are located. So if you do visit a public altar be sure to ask, or be mindful of the rules.