Cuhixu Uheni
Route element
Cuhixu Uheni
Located on a large plateau in the municipality, together with Huahuatsari, they mark the north and south of the third ceremonial gate on the route.
It is a low hill approximately 2,380 m high, covered with xerophytic scrub, located on the eastern edge of the Zacatecan Altiplano. Together with Huahuatsari, they form the northern and southern elements of the Third Gate.
Along the route there are five main gates, important thresholds that mark stages of the pilgrimage. This area is considered the Third Gate. At gates 1 and 2, the two elders who guide the pilgrimage are the urucuecame, who is on the south side, and the nauxatame, who is on the north side. The jicareros, or gourd carriers, pass between them, are spiritually cleansed, and receive blessings. The novices are blindfolded before reaching the threshold and their eyes are uncovered once they cross it. At this gate, the novices are told that their ancestors are present in this place.
Sacred sites:
- Cuixu Uheni
