Overview

Chichicastenango is among Guatemala’s most significant towns, known for safeguarding a wealth of Mayan culture, history, and traditions. It is home to the Quiché civilization, the largest group in the Mayan population. Historically, it stood as one of the most important commercial hubs in the Maya world. It was here, in this enigmatic setting, that the original Popol Vuh was discovered. This ancient Mayan document marked a major milestone in our understanding of Mayan history, as it recounts the Mayas’ spiritual interpretation of the world’s creation, humankind’s beginnings, and the forces of nature.

Perched atop a mountain ridge, “Chichi” beckons visitors with its vibrant market - one of the largest in Guatemala. Tourism development in Chichicastenango focuses on celebrating the Quiché people’s cultural and religious heritage, offering numerous ways to immerse yourself in this enchanting town in southern Guatemala. The town was able to conserve its indigenous authenticity and this will give you the opportunity to experience its religious rituals, practiced almost every day. Chichicastenango is also well known for its wood artwork, typical fabrics, musical instruments, masks, candles, flowers, and jewelry.

Things to See and Do

Experience the most colorful market in Central America. The market is widely known and is the main attraction of Chichicastenango. It's also one of the largest and most historic. Since well before the Spanish Conquest, different Maya groups have traveled far and wide to Chichicastenango to trade their colorful textiles, ceramics, fresh produce, traditional medicines, and more. Today, this tradition continues. Twice a week, Chichicastenango's streets explode into a sea of colorful chaos with aromas of street food and incense you'll find yourself surrounded by every type of handicraft, flowers, food, and many other goods. It's an experience you'll never forget.

If you plan to stay longer than a day trip to explore the town, be sure to stop at the Iglesia de Santo Tomas (Santo Tomas Church). The church is a cultural centerpiece of the Chichi Market, and the town. Dating back to the 16th century, the Spanish built this church atop an existing Maya temple. It is the main place where Mayan prayer leaders practice their rituals. Especially on Sundays, these "priests" burn incense and devote themselves to their ancestors. The 18 steps that lead you up to the entrance, stands for each month of the year of the Mayan calendar.

Today, locals frequent the church to practice both ancient ancestral religious rituals and Catholic ceremonies. On market day, you will see local people crowding the steps, and burning incense. To say this church is sacred would be an understatement.

Inside the Santo Tomas Church, you will find the Chichicastenango Regional Museum, which is home to several indigenous stories and artifacts, some of which date back more than 3,000 years.

Discover the Chichicastenango Cemetery. Considered the most colorful cemetery in the world, it is easy to find since it is located on the top of a hill. Checking out the many above-ground tombs and strolling the grounds is an interesting cultural experience. According to its traditions, every color on the graves has its meaning: white (pureness, for the fathers), turquoise (protection, for the mothers), yellow (protection of the sun over humanity, used for grandparents), pink and blue (respecting the genre, for girls and boys).

Hike up the hill to see Pascual Abaj, known also as Colina Turk'aj (sacred hill). Located outside the main town, this pre-Columbian religious site is home to a centuries-old Maya stone idol. Chichicastenango's local community of Maya K'iche people still practice sacred rituals and ceremonies here. To get to Pascual Ab'aj you will hike through the forest, finding beautiful landscapes, fauna, and colorful birds. On the base of this hill is a museum with masks, antique artifacts, and typical local fabrics.