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Chichicastenango - Saint Thomas Chichicastenango:
“Santo Tomás”: in honor of his patron saint Tomás Apóstol; “Chichistenango”: from Nahuatl, means «wall of nettles»
It is a municipality in the department of Quiché (Guatemala). It is located south of the department and is a renowned tourist center for its local market. It is located 18 km from the departmental capital and 145 km from Guatemala City. The majority of the population is indigenous to the Quiché ethnic group.
During the colonial era it was a doctrine of the Dominican friars and after the Independence of Central America was part of the department of Sololá. In 1838, it became part of the ephemeral State of Los Altos until it was reinstated to the State of Guatemala by the general Conservative Rafael Carrera in 1840. After the Liberal Reform of 1871, on August 12, 1872, the de facto government of the provisional president Miguel García Granados created the department of Quiché, to which Chichicastenango has belonged since then.
- Scenic boat ride on Atitlán Lake
- Comfortable in-vehicle air conditioning
- Hotel stay with breakfast included on day two
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
Upon reaching the Chichicastenango market, your guided walk will begin. At the town center, this market serves as the commercial epicenter for the Maxeños, the indigenous people of Chichicastenango. Every Thursday and Sunday, traders make their way to the central plaza to trade goods at this spectacular native market, with its character remaining much the same throughout history. Stroll down the compact lanes and appreciate the local goods and handicrafts on display.
While in Chichicastenango, a trip to the Santo Tomás church is also on the agenda. Constructed in 1540 atop a prior pre-Hispanic shrine, it is a stunning showpiece of colonial architecture. The impact of the Mayan culture and Latin influence is distinctly noticeable within and around the structure.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
