In addition to the legend that claims that the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes are the product of a sad love story, there is a narration that tells us the origin of the latter’s nickname; that is, of Don Goyo.
According to what is told in the town of Santiago Xalitzintlalocated 12 kilometers from Popocatépetl, there are people known as temperamentswhich belong to the Analco family.
According to tradition, Temperos are “chosen” people who have the ability to communicate with the spirit of the volcano.. This is how the origin of the nickname is due to one of the most famous temperas that have ever existed: Don Gregorio Chino Popocatépetl.
However, Don Gregorio was not a common temperament, because far from listening to the thoughts of Popocatépetl; that man was considered the very personification of the volcano.
For this reason, it is said that it appeared every time the Popo was about to activate. In this way, he warned the inhabitants about the possible dangers that were approaching and managed to prevent misfortunes.
Due to the appearances of Don GoyoLittle by little, the people of the town began to know the volcano by that name. Even, as a thank you, every March 12 (San Gregorio Magno Day) the inhabitants offer beautiful flowers and delicious food to the imposing volcano.
The legend of Popo and Izta
According to the story, the mountains of the popocatepetl and of the iztaccihuatl in reality they are a young warrior and a beautiful maiden. They were both from Tlaxcala and they loved each other with all the strength their hearts allowed. However, one day when the young man had to leave to fight one of the many battles that took place between the Tlaxcalans and the Mexicas, tragedy caught up with them.
Although both had promised to marry when he returned from the fight, his faithful love succumbed to death. Upon his return, and despite being victorious, the news stole any shred of happiness from him. According to his account, his last days were focused on trying to honor his beloved.
Finally, he found a way. So, wasting no more time, he had a monumental tomb erected under the sun. He ordered that a dozen hills be piled up for this. Subsequently, he carried what would be her future wife in her arms and took her to the top of the mountain.
While there, he gave her one last kiss and knelt next to his beloved to watch over her dream forever. It is not known if it was the work of the pre-Hispanic gods, but time passed and two colossal mountains were raised that seem to look at and worship each other for eternity; these are the mythical popocatepetl and the impressive iztaccihuatl.
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