Facts & Figures

Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered on the west by the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico, and on the east by the Gulf of Honduras (Caribbean Sea) between Honduras and Belize.

The Mayan civilization flourished in Guatemala and surrounding regions during the first millennium A.D. After almost three centuries as a Spanish colony, Guatemala won its independence in 1821.  During the second half of the 20th century, the country experienced a variety of military and civilian governments as well as a 36-year civil war.  In 1996, the government signed a peace agreement formally ending the conflict. A war which led to the death of more than 100,000 people and created more than a million refugees.

Guatemala's capital city is the most modern and cosmopolitan city in Central America. Fast paced and vibrant, Guatemala City (or Guate as it's referred to locally) is a wonderful blend of old and new and possesses a distinct Latin charm. Today, Guatemala City proper has some 2.5 million inhabitants. Its location, facilities and the International Airport "La Aurora" make it the starting point for visits to the rest of Guatemala.  Guatemala City was founded in 1776, after a devastating earthquake destroyed the former Spanish capital of Central America, "La Cuidad de Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala,” known today as Antigua Guatemala (or simply Antigua). Sitting on top of three tectonic plates, Guatemala City is spread out in a valley with Volcán Agua (The Water Volcano) on its horizon.  

Guatemala City has an active cultural life throughout the year. Most of the country's museums are to be found here. There are also more than 30 galleries showing Guatemalan artists in painting, photography, engraving and sculpture. Theaters present a wide range of plays, especially national playwrights.  Visitors interested in handicraft will find them in the Central Market, located a block away from the Cathedral. At the Central Market you will not only find unique Guatemalan handicrafts, but also see the colorful variety of local flowers, fruits and vegetables. The Relief Map in Minerva Park is a good place to see the extension of Guatemala and if you have never been to Paris you should visit "Torre el Reformador," the world's only scale replica of the Eiffel Tower.

Antigua

Antigua is among the world's best-conserved colonial cities; it is a magical and captivating small town that makes you feel time might have stopped some 300 years ago. From its colonial architecture to its beautiful surroundings, as you stroll through town on the cobblestone streets, you will experience the splendors of ancient times!  Antigua Guatemala offers something for all travelers. Colonial history that is always present combines with an array of cultural activities, which include art galleries and exhibits, performing arts, popular arts, films, forums, and cultural tourism in general. Antigua Guatemala was once the third most important Spanish colony in the Americas. More than 30 monastic orders called Antigua home and built stunning monasteries, convents and cathedrals in the town. Its setting is majestic, nestled between three dramatic volcanoes: Agua, Fuego and Acatenango.  Antigua hosts the largest celebrations for Lent and Easter in the Western Hemisphere. The history of the processions dates back to the early 1500s and began with the arrival of Don Pedro de Alvarado from Spain. While many are attracted to the solemn religious fervor, others enjoy the beauty of the colorful "alfombras" (sawdust carpets) that are made along the processional routes. And Antigua is also among Latin America's most popular cities in which to study Spanish, boasting more than 75 schools.

Guatemala Facts