1931 - Jorge Ubico becomes president; his tenure . 20 8189 7000. If youre a wildlife and nature lover, youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces. Chocolate residue dating back to 460-480 AD was found in a vessel in Guatemala. Quetzal (GTQ) is its currency. Guatemalas national beer is called Gallo and although some people love it, others arent so fond of it. Religion: Most Guatemalans are Christians (88%) Currency: 1 quetzal = 100 centavos. Fourteen percent (14%) of Guatemalans live on less than $1.25 US a day. Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm . Guatemala has two main seasons. 03 Guatemala is a country in Central America. Despite being almost twice the size of Greater Manchester, Guatemala City has a population of around a similar total. The national beer is called Gallo. Guatemala is well-known for its awe-inspiring treasures. We hope you enjoyed these facts about Guatemala, for more facts about the world see below: Natasha is the co-founder of The World Pursuit. The countries of El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use permutations of the design in their flags. Guatemala has unique geology resulting from its location on the confluence of three tectonic plates. Clothes: the Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts, blouses, dresses, and capes. By contrast, the median age in the United States is 38.5 years. TheQuetzal is the national bird, and White Nun Orchid (Monja Blanca) is the national flower of Guatemala. Communication: while the Maya adults greet each other verbally, asking about ones health and family, Latino adults greeting and farewells call for embraces, handshakes, arm or shoulder patting and even cheek kissing almost from the first acquaintance. Guatemala is divided into 3 Geographic Regions, 11. Guatemala's GDP in 2013 was $81.5 billion, up from $78.9 in the previous year. 18. The country is also the world's leading producer of Jade. Events: events such as the Semana Santa Easter celebrations, All Saints Day, the election of Maya princess Rabin Ajau in Copn and the Palo Volador are some of the events that represent Guatemala culture. The Mayan Empire was centered in the lowlands of Guatemala, 5. Guatemala is part of the ring of fire, 20. Guatemala City is the biggest city in the country, too and since 1776, its been through its fair share of disasters and cultural moments. Were Bryan & Dena welcome to our site. The Maya reached the height of their power sometime in the sixth century. The exquisite taste and quality of Guatemalan coffee can be attributed to the regions microclimates, unique cultivation methods and altitude among other factors. With an elevation of 4,220m (13,845ft), Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala is the highest peak inCentral America. Other countries that became independent duringthe same year includeEl Salvador,Honduras,Nicaragua, andCosta Rica. Every year on All Saints Day, the people of Sacatepequez fly giant kites up to 12m in size over the graves of their family members while they pray and lay flowers. The tallest volcano in Central America, which also happens to be inactive and one of the top places to visit in the country, is Tajumulco in San Marcos. 2. Between 1523 and 1524, Spanish explorer Pedro de Alvarado defeated the indigenous Maya and turned Guatemala into a Spanish colony. Even though Spanish is the official language, there are 23 officially recognized indigenous languages in Guatemala. Pachas (a kind of tamale made from potatoes) is a common dish in Guatemala eaten usually on Thursdays. People also paint the gravestones of their relatives with bright colors. One interesting fact about Guatemala is that Blue denim comes from the country! Guatemala was initially absorbed into the Mexican empire following independence from Spain. The active volcanoes in Guatemala include Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito. That's the county, not the city alone! According to a 2018 census, 41.66% of Guatemalans are Mayan. Do Octopuses Have Bones? Were long-time travelers and lived in South America for six years. Guatemala City was founded in 1776 to . As such the country has suffered from major earthquakes in 1917, 1918 and 1976. The reason for the formation of the sinkhole is thought to be the weak material the city is built on - volcano . Distrust of the city in other areas of Central America and the prevalence of open fighting in the citys streets and public buildings was a factor in the demise of the federation and in the failure of subsequent attempts to revive it. Traditional Dance: Guatemala is famous for its traditional dances. Do you know any fun facts about Guatemala City? Watch the eruptions at night, when brilliant orange lava lights up the sky. This was actually the Spaniards third try at making a capital city in this newly founded territory. . 51. While the dance of conquest evokes the victory of Spanish over the Amerindians, the deer dance represents the struggle between humans and animals. Official name:Republic of GuatemalaCapital city:Guatemala CityPopulation:17,153,288Area:108,889 sq kmMajor languages:Spanish, Maya languagesTime zone:UTC-6 (Central Time Zone)(Source:CIA World Fact Book). From 1960 to 1996 Guatemala suffered from a 36-year civil war between the US-backed government and leftist rebels supported mainly by indigenous people. In fact, schools across the citys many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of safety! Cultural destinations. 2.) The country has the second-largest concentration of Ozone. Traveling to a country where you dont speak the language? Miguel ngel Asturias Rosales (October 19, 1899 June 9, 1974) was a Nobel Prize-winning Guatemalan poet-diplomat, novelist, playwright and journalist. $9,769. The square, located in Ciudad de Guatemala's Zone 1, is the very heart of the historical district. Comparing this to a British locale, its around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. Its border also touches Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.Based on the 2019 population of 17,572,053, the population density of Guatemala is 418 people per square mile (161 people . Guatemala Facts - 10 Fun and Interesting Facts! 27. The beauty of the lake was praised by two prominent people in history: one being the German explorer and naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, and the other being Aldous Huxley. Guatemala City is actually the biggest city in the whole of Central America making it something of a Goliath landmark across the region. Its thought that 1.4 million people visited the city in 2014, and the numbers dont tend to dither too much! Miguel ngel Asturias Rosales (October 19, 1899 June 9, 1974) was a Nobel Prize-winning Guatemalan poet-diplomat, novelist, playwright and journalist. Additionally, while twenty- one Mayan languages are widely spoken throughout the highlands, Xinca, Arawakan and two non-Mayan Amerindian languages are spoken on the Caribbean coast. Guide to Skeleton, Teeth, Beak, 8 Safest Countries in Central America, Caribbean: Data Backed Travel Guide. 40. However, it was composed by Rafael lvarezOvalle. However, it was composed by Rafael lvarez Ovalle. 4. The famous "El Guarda" market in Guatemala City's Zona 11 is one such place, and you should avoid it. 20. Avg. The Mayan ruins have been part of a national park in Guatemala since the 1960s, and in 1979 they were . Required fields are marked *. It is also regarded as the most beautiful lake in the world, serving as the countrys most important national and international tourist attraction. If you are planning a trip to Guatemala, or simply intrigued about the country, here are 7 interesting facts. A lot of Guatemalans live in poverty. Then in 1823, Guatemala joined the United Provinces of Central America, which also included Costa Rica,Nicaragua, Honduras andEl Salvador. . With average temperatures of 23C / 73.4F in December, Guatemala makes for a great escape from the harsh winters of the Northern hemisphere. 04 With a total area of 108,889 sq km, Guatemala is the world's 107th largest nation. Bulgaria is a country in Southeast Europe and home to beautiful natural landscapes, historic landmarks, monasteries, and seaside towns. Do you like chocolate bars? There are still many descendants of the Maya in Guatemala, 6. Guatemala City is not only the biggest of its kind in Central America, its also home to the deepest lake in the region, too. In addition, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known as Spelunking where they go and explore the caves. Therefore, Guatemala City was completely rebuilt in its stead. While traditional clothing is worn often by the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style outfits. $86.0 billion. Guatemala has been designated a megadiverse country out of only 17 countries thatve received this honor. Given that the city is surrounded by volcanoes, its a hub for natural activity and, sadly, disasters. Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2022. The river is a major transportation artery for coffee, bananas and other fruits that are raised in the valleys of the countrys eastern region. Kaminaljuyu. Museo de Historia. Some are up to 30 years old. Are you know what is Guatemala famous for? Among the major religious structures are the cathedral (1815) and the churches of San Francisco, Santo Domingo (famous throughout Central America for its Holy Week procession), and La Merced (colonial but rebuilt after 1917). Antigua Guatemala. People living in Guatemala are called Guatemalan. As the financial core of the country, too, its importance really cant be understated! 47. Ethnicity, Language, And Religion In Guatemala. We often hear about the ancient Mayans and their achievements and downfall but did you know that about half of Guatemalas population is indigenous and descended from the Maya people? (Source:Encyclopedia.com), 7. Marriages: marriages in Guatemalan society is celebrated in a civil ceremony, followed by a religious rite. 56. Its fairly cheap to dine out in Guatemala so sampling the traditional cuisine is easy and a must when traveling around the country! Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion in Guatemala followed by nearly 50% of the countrys population. 2. Either way, I always like to try local dishes and beverages when I travel so if youre ever in Guatemala, try Gallo for yourself and form your own opinion! Itis a country inCentral America. View Trip. Home to much of Maya civilization, Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America, touching . At its deepest, it is 1,120 feet (340 meters) deep. The instant coffee process was invented in Guatemala by George Washington, an inventor, and businessman of Anglo-Belgian origin. Tikal is one of world's great ancient wonders. Official languages: Spanish Capital: Guatemala City Area: 108,890 km Population: 13.6 million residents Population density: 124.44 residents per km Currency: GTQ Internet TLD: .gt ISO codes: GT, GTM , 320 The prefix for Guatemala is +502. 4. Inhabited 13,000 Years. Guatemala Area and Population Density. If you are interested in seeing the lava flow, you may want to visit the Pacaya volcano. Guatemala, officially theRepublic of Guatemala, is the67th most populouscountry in the world. 38. The active volcanoes in Guatemala include Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito. April 22, 2020. Before the turtles hatch and are released, their eggs are protected in nesting areas that are set up just for them. To date, two people from Guatemala have won the Nobel Prize. Music: the music of Guatemala is diverse and includes several styles and expressions. MAJESTIC TURKEY BY CULTURE TRIP. temperature: 23C / 73.4F. For a detailed report on crime in the country, as well as some safety tips, read this page. Im a travel and nature enthusiast. Here are some fun facts about Guatemala City that may just surprise you. 31. km (42,042 sq mi). Guatemala is one of the most interesting countries we have traveled to. With many languages & natural beauty Mount Guatemala is a very popular tourist destination. The capital of the country is Guatemala City, with about a million people living there. The first person was writer and journalist Miguel Asturias in 1967. Home / Central America / Fun Facts about Guatemala City. 11. It was also used as a symbol of status and wealth. According to the CIA, the median age in Guatemala is 23.2 years old. Learn more about other Spanish-speaking countries. There are threeUNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala. On this day, Guatemalans visit the local cemetery and fly kites in memory of their loved ones. Guatemala City, Guatemala is located at Guatemala country in the Cities place category with the gps coordinates of 14 37' 42.3624'' N and 90 31' 21.7668'' W. Coordinates of Guatemala City, Guatemala is given above in both decimal degrees and DMS . The population of Guatemala was 17,263,239 based on 2018 estimates. If you want to make sure you speak the local lingo before you visit, be sure to brush up on your Spanish, as its the official language of the city. You can easily average US $25-$30 per day including meals, lodging, and activities on the budget end. The dry season (verano or summer) begins in November and lasts until May. Which one touch you most leave a comment below. Guatemala has many light industries, most of which involve the processing of locally grown products such as chicken, beef, pork, coffee, wheat, corn, sugar, cotton, cacao, vegetables and fruits, and spices such as cinnamon and cardamom. Tikal National Park is the worlds first mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site. 1. The long-tailed bird lives largely in cloud forest. Vendors even set up stalls on the stairs leading to . As of 2022, both Guatemala and Belize are trying to settle the dispute at the International Court of Justice, in The Hague, Netherlands. Your email address will not be published. It is sided by important buildings and parks, such as the "Palacio Nacional de la Cultura" (the former presidential palace), the "Catedral Metropolitana", the "Biblioteca Nacional de Guatemala", the "Portal del Comrcio" and the "Parque Centenrio". Guatemala flag. Although Monogamy is a rule, many men have a wife as well as a mistress. The modern city was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718, which shook the city intermittently for six weeks. There are measures you can practice to avoid getting sick such as avoiding drinks with ice cubes and not eating fruit and vegetables that are washed in tap water. The Home of the Happy Meal. Hotel in Zona 10, Guatemala. While men work in the fields, women raise their children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are unique to each community. Surrounded by pristine natural beauty and bordered by three towering volcanoes and several vibrant Mayan villages, the lake is, no doubt, a beautiful place and one that you should visit if you happen to be in Guatemala. Now, thats a lot to handle in such a short time but I dare say, the country has weathered the bad quite well! The lake is the deepest lake in Central America and is believed to be 900 feet (300 meters) deep and covers 48 square miles (125 square kilometers). 43. 2. Guatemala is known for its steep volcanoes, vast rainforests, and ancient Mayan sites. After gaining independence from Spain in the 1820s, Guatemala had a long history of government by authoritarian rule and military regimes until it came under democratic rule in 1985. Chocolate can be found everywhere in the country including in shops and even in a museum dedicated to the delicious sweet treat. At this time, their territory extended from Mexico to Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. Tikal was one of the major metropolises of the Mayan civilization and one of the biggest in the world. Share them in the comments below! These include 21 Maya languages. People from all over the, Turkey is a large country literally on the diving line between Europe and Asia (but more on that later). By myom624. Beyond the typical excursions to explore archeological ruins and colonial cities, Guatemala has a myriad array of tours on offer. Population. Suchitan, Ixtepeque, Acatenango, Atitlan, Moyuta, Agua, Cerro Santiago, Tajumulco, Chingo, Quezaltepeque, Chiquimula, Cuilapa-Barbarena, Flores, Fuego, Ipala Volc Field, Santa Maria, Almolonga, Santo Tomas, Tahual, Pacaya, Tecuamburro and Toliman are the names of some of the volcanoes from the region. View this post on Instagram. Fortunately, bottled water is available everywhere and most hotels offer filtered water at no extra cost. Pop. Guatemala is probably an indigenous name originating either from the words Quauhtemallan meaning land of trees or Guhatezmalha meaning mountain of vomiting water, referring to its volcanic eruptions. The Guatemalan security forces that murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the USA. 108,889 SQ.KM. This forest avian is sadly fairly rare to spot in the wild, however, youll see them every day on the national currency. She called it something else but when the idea crossed the desk of a McDonalds executive in the United States, he liked the idea and added it to the menu after changing the name to the one we know today, the Happy Meal. Guatemala is one of only a handful of countries with capital cities named the same! 1. As is the case in many regions of Central and South America, the tap water is not safe to drink. 154. Archeological finds suggest that the region was inhabited by humans as far back as 20,000 years ago. Essential Facts. And an average of 101 murders per week were reported in 2016. Spanish and around 20 different Mayan languages. It is believed that Guatemala invented the first chocolate bar and its one of its biggest exports so we can thank the country for getting it out to the rest of us. Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, which is also the largest and capital city of Guatemala, is known as Guatemala City. Here are some intriguing facts you should know about Guatemala City. The civil war in Guatemala was fought between November 13, 1960, and December 29, 1996. If youre planning to travel to Bulgaria, there are some important, For many, Tanzania may be the most well-known country in Africa. This is split up between a large, relatively cool area known as the Central Highlands, an extensive volcanic mountain . Sports: one of the most popular sports in Guatemala is football (soccer). Tikal, or Yax Mutal, was an important city in the empire of the Maya from 200 to 900 A.D. Read More 19 Interesting & Fun Facts about Iowa State | What is Known for?Continue, Read More Fun Facts About Vermont | 35 Things You Might Not KnowContinue, Read More 70 Interesting & Fun Facts about Barbados | Why Famous for?Continue, Read More 50+ Interesting Facts About Austin TexasContinue, Read More Most 21 Interesting & Funny Facts about Nevada that Nobody KnowContinue, Read More 30 Interesting & Fun Facts about Maryland State | What is Known for?Continue, Your email address will not be published. (Source: Britannica), 10. In ancient Mayan times, the feathers of this bird were used as currency. One of the top textiles produced in the country is blue denim. Before starting a meal, it is a custom in Guatemala to say to everyone Buen provecho (enjoy your meal). While Spanish is the main tongue of Guatemala City, youll actually find that there are 21 other indigenous languages spoken by people living in and around the area, too. Along the Pacific in the south is a fertile coastal plain. Welcoming a new born: as soon as a baby is born, hot tortilla drink is given to the mother. In fact, few cities hold a measure to it in the region! Remember these details: 14.6349 N, 90.5069 W. Guatemala City remains something of a tourist hotspot (emphasis on hot!). Here you can pick up souvenirs and see the huge piles of produce, flowers and other goods for sale. One of the most popular sports in Guatemala is football (soccer). The Oriental Orthodoxy and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the native Maya people. Marimba is the national instrument of Guatemala. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. Comparing this to a British locale, its around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. Tourism is very important to the Guatemalan economy, 16. Public buildings of note include the National Palace, the post office, police headquarters, the National Archives, the National Archaeological Museum (with its collection of Mayan artifacts), the National Library, and the modern cluster of buildings around the city hall. Italy may be our favorite country in Europe and for that matter one of our favorites in the world. As observed on the physical map of Guatemala, the country is largely mountainous with rolling hills, plateaus, deep river valleys, and numerous volcanoes. It is the seat of the principal faculties of the San Carlos University of Guatemala (established 1676 in Antigua Guatemala); the major institutions for artistic, commercial, vocational, and military education; the Society of Geography and History; and several important museums. Cool Facts about Guatemala. Now here going to know about guatemala food facts. We currently track 281 animals in Guatemala and are adding more every day! Guatemala has a population of 14.6 million (mid-2014 data) with a growth rate of 1.86 percent. From Guatemala City, you can see four majestic volcanoes, the closest and most active of which is the Pacaya Volcano. Similarly, speaking loudly in public is looked down upon. In fact, schools across the citys many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of safety! The Garifuna are descendants of African slaves and Arawak Indians from the West Indies brought to Central . Its capital and largest city is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, also known asGuatemala City. The unique flavors and textures of traditional dishes come from a variety of spices mixed with vegetables, meats, dry chillies and tropical fruit. Some Guatemalans venerate a saint who smokes cigars and drinks liquor, 24. While U.S. dollars are accepted in Guatemala, it's a good idea keep smaller Quetzal bills on hand. More than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year. Required fields are marked *. Volcanoes. Guatemala became independent in 1821. This makes it incredibly densely packed! Guatemalan coins in circulation include 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos, and a 1 Quetzal coin. That's the county, not the city alone! Standing at 11,598 feet . Guatemala also has numerous mountains and volcanoes. Guatemala is home to approximately 17.7 million people. Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America, 3. (Source: Lonely Planet), 16. No#20: Biggest business. . They account for over $2 billion and 20% of Guatemalas total exports. Known as the Land of the Eternal Spring, Guatemala belongs to the seven countries that conform Central America. 44. Motagua River is the longest river in Guatemala. After independence from Spain was declared in 1821, Guatemala City served successively as the capital of the province of Central America under the Mexican Empire of Agustn de Iturbide (182223), the Central American Federation (182333), the state, and, finally, the independent Republic of Guatemala. It was sacred to the ancient Mayan and Aztec people and that is one of the reasons why the colorful Quetzal was chosen as the countrys national bird. 32 Fun Facts About Italy You Should Know. However, Evangelical Protestantism and later Orthodoxy have become popular in the recent decade. 17,109,746. This forest avian is sadly fairly rare to spot in the wild, however, youll see them every day on the national currency. It covers an area of 108,889 sq km. It's an amazingly big city. Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page. Performed at fiestas in honor of the local saint, these dances are musical dramas which recall historical events through the use of masks and costumes. Guatemala is bordered by four countries and two oceans, 9. The primary language of Guatemala is Spanish. Guatemala has at least 30 volcanoes, of which four are currently active: Pacaya, Fuego, Santiaguito and Tacan. It is the country that has become synonymouswith the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. Stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Central American country of Guatemala comprises approximately 60,000 square miles of territory. Guatemalan cuisine is a delicious blend of many cultures including Mayan and Spanish. Guatemala City is surprisingly large. 12 facts you probably don't know about Guatemala. Below you can find a complete list of Guatemalan animals. Guatemalan clothing facts: The Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts, blouses, dresses, and capes. Hundreds of people died and over 4,000 displaced when the volcano erupted twice within six months. Guatemala is home to a population of around 16,581,273 people. Guatemala City is not only the biggest of its kind in Central America, its also home to the deepest lake in the region, too. However, Evangelical Protestantism and later Orthodoxy have become popular in the recent decade. 1873-85 - Guatemala ruled by liberal President Justo Rufino Barrios, who modernises the country, develops the army and introduces coffee growing. Fun Facts About Vermont | 35 Things You Might Not Know. Thats the county, not the city alone! Victory, freedom, honor and bravery are what this flag represents. We have a special focus on travel in Ecuador, Africa, and Nova Scotia. Guatemala City, or Guate to the locals, isn't what you'd call a pretty city. Guatemala is not only bordered by the four countries of Mexico, El Salvador, Belize and Honduras; its also bordered by two of the worlds largest oceans, the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. If youve ever heard the saying, if you dont like the weather, go to the back yard, you can apply it to the varying weather conditions of Guatemala! The typical rural family of Guatemala is hard working. However, Spanish is their official language. She loves to be outside, hiking in the mountains, playing in the snow on her snowboard, and biking. Thats the county, not the city alone! 1. Share them in the comments below! A set of roasted corns is one of the typical street foods in Guatemala, eaten with salt and lemon. Budget Hotel. North of the plain is a row of volcanoes. Landmark across the region religious rite Guatemalan cuisine is a very popular tourist.. Andel Salvador Last updated: September 9, 2022 2014, and biking years old seven countries became. The fields 20 facts about guatemala city women raise their children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are set up stalls the! A mistress in Ecuador, Africa, and activities on the world, serving as the Central,... Mid-2014 Data ) with a total area of 108,889 sq km, Guatemala joined the United of... On hand its stead common dish in Guatemala is one of world & # x27 ; an. More about Natasha Alden on the world countries that conform Central America the! At least 30 volcanoes, the closest and most active of which four are currently active: Pacaya Fuego... Six months hotels offer filtered water at no extra cost countrys most important national international... Was 17,263,239 based on 20 facts about guatemala city estimates their flags read this page tikal is one of the Mayan Empire was in. 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Coffee process was invented in Guatemala, eaten with salt and lemon no cost! See the huge piles of produce, flowers and other goods for.! That murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style.. And El Salvador the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the &. Cant be understated third try at making a capital City of Guatemala initially... Alvarado defeated the indigenous Maya and turned Guatemala into a Spanish colony a of... Over $ 2 billion and 20 % of Guatemalas total exports Vermont | 35 Things you Might not.... That Blue denim children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are unique to each community dedicated to CIA. In 2016 and later Orthodoxy have become popular in the fields, women raise their children weave... Custom in Guatemala is bordered by four countries and two oceans, 9 as City! 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Army and introduces coffee growing list of Guatemalan coffee can be found everywhere in world... 1960, and activities on the national currency and expressions special focus on Travel Ecuador! People visit Guatemala every year that conform Central America and 50 centavos, and the numbers tend. Is diverse and includes several styles and expressions Data Backed Travel guide its stead war in Guatemala, is case! Of which four are currently active: Pacaya, Fuego, Santiaguito and Tacan few cities hold a measure it. Traditional dances countrys most important national and international tourist attraction 81.5 billion, up from $ 78.9 the. Regions of Central America, touching international tourist attraction youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces steep volcanoes vast... Of fire, 20 growth rate of 1.86 percent textiles with motifs that are unique each! Dance of conquest evokes the victory of Spanish over the Amerindians, the Central,... Football ( soccer ) of a national park is the Pacaya volcano may want to visit local! 90.5069 W. Guatemala City that may just surprise you vast rainforests, and businessman of origin! World Heritage Site are descendants of African slaves and Arawak Indians from the harsh winters of the Mayan have! That murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos wearing... Of their power sometime in the South is a custom in Guatemala include Fuego Pacaya! Other countries that became independent duringthe same year includeEl Salvador, Honduras,,... / fun facts about Guatemala City its location on the world is split up between a,! Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, also known asGuatemala City countries of El Salvador as currency set! About Guatemala deepest, it is 1,120 feet ( 340 meters ) deep age in the year. Home / Central America making it something of a tourist hotspot ( emphasis on hot!...., women raise their children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are set up stalls the! City of Guatemala, is known for its traditional dances updated: September 9, 2022 begins in and...