What is a nicho?
Nicho is a Spanish word that describes a small cabinet that often functions as a home altar. Depending on the region, the word retablo can also be used to describe a nicho. Though typically hung on the wall, nichos can also be designed to stand on their own.
Throughout history, nichos have been used as a place to honor a religious figure or a loved one who has passed on.
Image source: https://indigoarts.com/cristo-crucificado-nicho
How are nichos used today?
In our modern context, nichos are used very similarly to their traditional use. In many households, one can still see nichos serving their purpose as an altar dedicated to a saint or religious figure.
​
I often describe my nicho cabinets as simply a home altar. Use it however feels fitting for you and your context.
It could be a place of honor for your late grandmother's photo, a place for special mementos, handmade piece of pottery, or simply a petite vase of flowers. Celebrate the sacred in your own way.
