Chichicastenango


On the way to the market
Photo by: Adal-Honduras, Creative Commons

If you want something that will appeal to your senses, you should visit the colourful markets of Chichicastenango, Guatemala. Chichicastenango is a town located in the highlands. It has the most colourful and interesting market in the whole Americas. The market usually opens on Thursdays and Sundays and it is both a place for vendors and buyers and also for tourists. It is not only a market but also a tourist spot.

The marketplace is huge and sellers come from different places and ethic groups. There are Indians and ethnic groups in Guatemala that sell different products. The place is so colourful because most of the products for sale are colourful weaved cloths, textiles, handicrafts, and costumes. The people speak different languages. When you go to the market, be prepared for an exciting medley of different colours, sounds, textures, and smells. You should not miss the ChiChi market and you should buy at least one item from it as a souvenir.

Aside from the market, you should also visit the 400+-year-old church—La Iglesia de Santo Tomas. It was built in 1540 and it is the main church of Chichicastenango. The church is almost bare and empty, but the atmosphere will take you back to another time more ancient than now.

Another interesting place in Chichicastenango is the colourful cemetery. You might find it a bit weird to visit a local cemetery during a travel or tour but this cemetery is different. The Cementario General has colourful graves that look great in pictures.

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