Travel

When on holiday in Guatemala . no vacation would be complete without visiting the incredible Market in Chichicastenango. Located just a few hours northwest of Guatemala City, Chichicastenango (also known as Santo Tomas Chichicastenango) is a beautiful small town located in the mountains, at an altitude of 1965m (6447ft). A daytrip from Guatemala City, a visit to this town is a wonderful way to travel in Guatemala and experience traditional culture in a gorgeous mountain setting.

The town is a mixture of white stucco buildings and cobblestone streets that remain from colonial times, mingled with pre-Columbian Mayan ruins and traditions that are maintained by modern day Mayans. In fact, the famous 400 year old church of Santo Tomas is built on top of the ruins of a pre-Columbian temple dating back to the Ancient Maya civilization. The steps to the temple are still venerated today.

Among this unique blend of cultures and history, the inhabitants of Chichicastenango carry on some traditions that date back hundreds of years. One such tradition is the market that dates back to pre-Hispanic times, in an area that has traditionally been one of the most important trade centers in the Mayan region.

The market is held every Thursday and Sunday, featuring vendors from all over the country and from each of the country’s linguistic groups. Widely believed to be the most colourful market in the Americas, it attracts people from all over Guatemala and tourists from around the world to experience the unique atmosphere and handmade products for sale.

A wonderful addition to any Guatemala tour package . visitors to the market are amazed at the number and variety of beautiful items for sale. Locals visit the market to purchase fruits and vegetables whose size and quality rivals that of the produce found in even the most high end grocery stores. Chickens, eggs, and other meats are also sold, and once a year there is a cattle market.

In addition to food and flowers sold by local small farmers, the market is famous for the exquisite handicrafts available for purchase. Elaborate wood-carved masks that are used in traditional dances have given this area a reputation for high-quality woodworking. Carved by hand and painted in a dizzying array of colours and designs, these masks make a beautiful souvenir or gift for someone back home.

Perhaps most popular are the intricately woven textiles on display at every turn. Traditional huipiles (traditional garments worn by Mayan women) are woven on handlooms into designs that represent different Mayan groups, and are created out of brightly coloured cloth. In addition to traditional blouses, these incredible fabrics are woven into blankets, handbags, ponchos, and more, each with a design that’s unique to the group it represents.

After a visit to the market, don’t miss the opportunity to step inside the church of Santo Tomas. Each of the 18 steps leading up to the church represents a month in the Mayan calendar year, and is an excellent example of how Mayan traditions and Spanish Catholic culture have mingled over the years in the town. On a historical note, the oldest known copy of the ancient Mayan religious text, the Popol Vuh. was discovered in the convent of this church, and the church is used as much by Catholic worshippers as it is by Mayans.

Martsam Travel, Guatemala tour operator . can arrange private tours to Chichicastenango on market days, including travel to and from Guatemala City. Enjoy the culture and history of Chichicastenango without any of the worry of arranging the details.