The Republic of Guatemala is a country in Central America, in the south of the continent of North America, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize to the northeast, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast.

Except for the south coastal area, and the vast lowlands of the Peten in the north, Guatemala is mountainous, with a hot tropical climate more temperate in the highlands, and drier in the easternmost departments. All of the major cities are situated in the southern half of the country; the major cities are the capital Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango and Escuintla. The large lake Lago de Izabal is situated close to the Caribbean coast

Influences of the Maya and the Spanish colonists are strong throughout Guatemala. In the cities, European influence (especially German) is well evidenced. Much of the clothing and food is still made in the traditional Mayan way in small villages in the highlands, and many Mayan ruins can be found. Along the small Caribbean coast, there are influences of African culture in the religious ceremonial songs, dances and food.

Guatemala has a rich and distinctive culture from the long mix of elements from Spain and the native Maya people. This diverse history and the natural beauty of the land has created a destination rich in interesting and scenic sites

Guatemala has approximately 10 million inhabitants. A large percent belong to 21 ethno linguistic Mayan groups who have retained the cultural traditions they have inherited from their ancestors. A lot of very interesting sights can still be seen, most of them in the northern department called "Peten". There are also mestizo, and the Caribbean coast population, which has retained its African and Caribbean roots.

Guatemala is a small country with a striking variety of topographic features. Nearly two-thirds of the country is mountainous and volcanic. Parallel to the Pacific lies the Sierra Madre mountain range, with peaks that rise to an elevation of up to 12.000 feet. 33 volcanoes dominate the landscape, and these, coupled with the lush tropical rain forests to the north, the fertile plains of the south and east, the beautiful lakes, and the wonderful rivers, make this a land of varied contrasts.

To this rich array of contrasts, one must add a major contributing factor to Guatemala's unique brand of beauty: its wealth of traditions, and the striking colors and patterns of the weavings of the Mayans. Noted for its lush colors and intricate design, the cloth is made into blouses called "huipiles", sashes, skirts and headdresses. Every group or town has its own particular native costume. Woven by its women, usually on a stick loom, its patterns feature the traditional symbolism that identifies their history and ancient gods.

Individuals such as Miguel Angel Asturias, recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature, and Rigoberta Menchu, the Nobel Peace Price recipient, have brought Guatemala international fame, but the country has given birth to many other great artists in all fields of art.

Central Market

The Central Market is one block from the plaza behind the cathedral. It contains every kind of handicraft made in the country.

The Cathedral of La Antigua

Bordering on Central Park, was built between 1782 and 1868. The Cathedral harbors many art treasures including some which were originally in the Cathedral of La Antigua Guatemala. Next to the Cathedral is the Archbishop's Palace, the residence dating back to the early Colonial period.

Kaminal Juyu                                                          

Located in the western section of Guatemala City (zone 7), Kaminal Juyu is one of the most important sites of the pre-Hispanic Period. Although the city's growth has destroyed a great deal of what once was a large archaeological site, it still has outstanding features, such as ceramics, sculptures and architecture. Recent studies show important applications of engineering techniques. While its history dates back to the Early Pre-classical Period, the actual inhabitants of this ancient city are yet unknown, since remains have disclosed the presence of various cultural groups.

National Palace

The National Palace, at Constitution Plaza, is one of the most prominent historical buildings in the city. Murals by Alfredo Galvez Suarez depict the conquest of Guatemala. Some of the ornate state chambers in the building can be visited with permission obtained in advance.

Mueso Ixchel

Start with a visit to the Museo Ixchel which is dedicated exclusively to the collection and preservation of the colorful Guatemalan native costumes and weavings (allow about two hours). If you're planning to spend time outside the city stop and look at the giant relief map of Guatemala in Minerva Park.

Museum of Archeology

If you have enough time visit the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology to see archaeological displays.

        
 
Plaza Mayor

Don't miss the National Palace on the north side of Plaza Mayor in Guatemala City's historic center. Built in the 1940s it served as offices for the president before it was converted into a museum. Murals by A. Galvez Suarez depict Guatemala's conquest by the Spaniards and the death of Tecun Uman a famous Maya warrior. Many cultural events take place in an adjoining amphitheater.

Popol Vuh

The Popol Vuh Museum is located on the campus of the Francisco Marroquin. Along with the Museo Ixchel one of the country's most impressive museums is the Museo Popol Vuh which has an excellent collection of Maya artifacts and contemporary folk art.

Relief Map of the Republic

Located at the end of Simeon Canas Avenue, in the northern sector of the City, was built in 1905 by Mr. Francisco Vela, an engineer. The map covers approximately 990 square meters. It can be viewed from platforms located on each side of the map.

Zona Viva / Reforma Avenue

Reforma Avenue is the most important artery of the southern part of the City, and is a combination of residential area, shopping arcades, hotels, restaurantes, bars, and night clubs. There are also art galleries and artisan shops. The zone is known as the "Live Zone" as it is well sought out for entertainment and commercial activity.