Facts About Guatemala

Interesting Facts About Guatemala

Guatemala is a popular destination among travelers due to its unique heritage and natural beauty. Known as the Land of the Eternal Spring, Guatemala belongs to the seven countries that conform Central America. The tropical weather and interwoven traditions make this region of the world perfect for culture-lovers. But besides Mayan history and volcanoes, there are many other ins and outs. For this reason, we have rounded up a list of interesting facts about Guatemala that will spark your interest.

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The original name of Guatemala was Quauhtlemallan, which means ‘place of many trees’ in the Mexican language Nahuatl. Actuality, the Mexican soldiers who accompanied the Spanish army during Guatemala's colonization gave the majority of the departments their names.

Guatemala hosts the largest city in Central America. Most tourists overlook Guatemala City, which is a fascinating blend of the modern and the ancient. The capital of Guatemala has developed into a city over the ages, housing about 3 million people today. While the modern sections are often changing to accommodate the latest trends, the Historical Center is 244 years old.

Almost half of the population in Guatemala is indigenous descendant from the Maya civilization. Pre-Hispanic customs are still followed in contemporary society, enabling them to maintain their cultural legacy. Several Mayan communes are dispersed across the nation, and about 20 distinct Mayan languages are still spoken today.

Guatemala has over 300 microclimates given its altitudinal range. Eight distinct regions make up the nation, allowing for the fullest possible appreciation of its biodiversity. Guatemala, which is in the Northern Hemisphere, experiences only two seasons: the rainy season in the summer and the dry season in the winter.

A volcanically active spot where three tectonic plates converge. Guatemala is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and only three of the 37 volcanoes are active.  The subduction of the Cocos Plate beneath the Caribbean and North American Plates is what causes the volcanism in Guatemala. The nation is a seismically active region where earthquakes are comparatively common because of its location above these geological faults.

Some of the most important Mayan cities flourished in Guatemala around 5,000 years ago. The Maya created a remarkable writing system, constructed colossal buildings honoring their gods, and made amazing strides in astronomy and mathematics. There are remnants of these remarkable accomplishments in every part of Guatemala. Tikal and El Mirador are two of the biggest and most significant Mayan cities.

There is a remarkable religious syncretism between the Mayan spirituality and Catholicism. The Spanish brought a whole different mindset with them when they colonized this region of the planet. Christianizing the indigenous populations was one of their objectives, although it was a difficult undertaking. Both cultures were able to modify their ideas throughout the years, and many Catholic customs are now combined with pre-Hispanic customs.

Guatemalan cuisine is a blend of different cultures. Exquisite flavors are created by combining unusual spices, scents, and textures. Stews made with dry chiles, meats, and other vegetables are typically the traditional cuisine. In addition, there are titbits to suit every taste. You may find maize (corn), beans, and pumpkins everywhere, as these have been a staple of the Mayan cuisine for centuries. Today's cuisine is a magnificent joy, combining European products and recipes with the ancient Mayan customs and cooking methods.

Guatemala is an appealing country that needs to be seen at least once in a life time. Start planning your vacation and allow us to assist you in the process.

Location and Map

Guatemala is located in Central America and shares borders with Mexico to the North and West, Belize and the Caribbean Sea to the Northeast, Honduras to the East, El Salvador to the Southeast and the Pacific Ocean to the South.