Chichicastenango

Chichicastenango is often referred to as Chichi. It is an isolated highland town that sits at an altitude of 2030 m (6658 feet) and is surrounded by valleys and mountains. Despite its isolation, it has always been an important market town and its Sunday market is very interesting. On Sundays the cofradías (religious brotherhoods) often hold processions, which makes a visit to Chichi even more interesting.

Around the church of Santo Tomás you may witness old religious rites that are typical to the local faith, which combines traditional Mayan religions with Catholicism. Nearby is the shrine of Pascual Abaj, where people come to honor the Mayan earth god and offer food and drinks to ancestors. The locals believe that this way the continued fertility of the earth is ensured.

The Museo Regional has an interesting collection of ancient clay pots and figurines, as well as flint and obsidian spearheads, maize grindstones and jade items.

There are several hotels and restaurants in Chichi. The town is 70 km northwest of Guatemala City.