Its name means “Town among Nettles”, located 145 km from the Capital City, with a temperate climate, it is one of the most visited tourist destinations for its cultural wealth, the colorful market day and the syncretism of the place. In addition to the K’iiche’ language, Spanish is spoken, its Patronal festival is celebrated from December 14 to 23, with the 21st being the main day in honor of Saint Thomas the Apostle, dates in which the presentation of the different living cultures of the municipality can be observed in its maximum expression.
The most representative folk dances of the place are: El Torito, Los Mexicanos, El Tzijolaj, and the Palo Volador ceremony. Located in the Guatemalan highlands, it has an invaluable cultural wealth; offers fascinating options that allow you to immerse yourself in the Mayan legacy and be the protagonist of an incredible mystical experience. Chichi, as it is called by nationals and foreigners, is one of the most visited tourist places, especially by foreigners who seek to observe the color of the market day and the syncretism of the place.
The town is also home to the Popol Vuh, the sacred text of the K’iche’ Maya, which was first transcribed here in the 18th century. This makes Chichicastenango not only a vibrant cultural hub but also a spiritual and historical landmark.
Ancient customs are still practiced in Chichicastenango. The town’s inhabitants are primarily K’iche’ Maya, and tourists can observe their traditions, listen to the K’iche’ language being spoken, and be amazed by the colorful huipiles (traditional blouses) that they wear. The market days offer a genuine glimpse into Mayan life and are a sensory extravaganza of hues, sounds, and scents.
Between the tourists places you can visit in this town are Santo Tomas church, the market, the cemetery, Gucumatz arch, the Rossbach regional museum, the masks museum and the ceremonial site of Pascual Abaj.
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