History

As a country, Guatemala dates back to 1821, when it gained independence from Spain. Guatemala’s recent history up until the mid-1990s, like much of Central America, has been filled with turmoil that has taken a terrible toll on the country, especially the indigenous people. But in the last decade or so, the country has begun to emerge from its tragic past.

Of course, the history of the civilization in the area begins well before the 1800s. The vast Mayan civilization flourished throughout the region before the arrival of the Spanish. The Mayans built major cities and ceremonial centers at Chichen-Itza, Palenque, Tulum, and the ancient complex of Tikal. Estimates of Tikal’s population range as high as 200,000 people; parts of Guatemala were more densely populated during the height of the Mayan civilization than they are today.

Culture and Language

Guatemala’s Mayan history dominates the culture throughout most of the country today, especially in rural areas. We’ll see traditional dress worn in the highlands region, especially at the local markets. The intricately woven patterns and embroidered motifs in the indigenous clothing still worn by many highland residents indicate in which village the wearer lives. An example is the birds woven into clothing of residents of Santiago Atitlán. When you visit markets, see if you can see themes in the clothing among different groups of men and women.

Religion in Guatemala is a fascinating mix of Catholicism and indigenous Mayan beliefs. The mixing of these two seemingly irreconcilable religions is embodied in Santiago Atitlán, in the combination of Catholic churches and the local deity Maximón (pronounced mosh-ee-mon). If we told you more about Maximón you probably wouldn’t believe us, so you'll just have to wait until you meet him in Santiago.

Spanish is the main language of Guatemala, although in rural areas some people speak only one or more of the 23 recognized indigenous languages, which include Quiche, Cakchiquel, and Kekchi. In popular tourist areas such as Antigua you'll find some people who speak English, but not many. We'll have an English-speaking guide in the highlands; and our guide in the Petén speaks Spanish and Quiche. Hearing the indigenous languages spoken is a highlight of the trip, reminding us that Guatemala and much of Central America was and still remains predominantly an indigenous region. Many guests enjoy learning a few Spanish words and phrases, and locals appreciate any effort to communicate in their language.