On the other hand, crosses which are placed along the sides of roads are not carried by penetentes, but placed there by the families of those who have died on their journeys on the highway. These crosses are called "descansos," meaning "rests" in English. The origin of descansos is from the Conquistadores. While the Conquistadores made their way through the terrain of New Mexico many people died along the way. When this happened, they placed a cross at that location and had a ceremony before continuing on the journey. Thus, the name "descanso"; They served not only as a rememberance for the departed, but as a rest for weary travelers.