Standing at 11,598 feet . For a detailed report on crime in the country, as well as some safety tips, read this page. Outdoor sports such as rafting, white- water rafting; kayaking and volcano climbing are also preferred. Guatemala knew 36 years of civil war. The reason for the formation of the sinkhole is thought to be the weak material the city is built on - volcano . The active volcanoes in Guatemala include Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito. By the end of civil war, 200,000 citizens were dead. It measures approximately 250 miles. These Guatemala facts are a great way to get an introduction to this beautiful Central American country. 1. There are more than 30 volcanoes in Guatemala, out of which three are active. Do you like chocolate bars? . temperature: 23C / 73.4F. The Quetzal is actually named for the national bird of the same moniker! 51. 42. This is a list of active, dormant, and extinct volcanoes in Guatemala. In addition, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known as Spelunking where they go and explore the caves. (Source: CIA World Fact Book) 2. Guatemala became independent in 1821. Incredible temples, an intricate writing system, a sophisticated calendar and many achievements in math, science and astronomy are just some of the things the Maya are known for. Alternate titles: Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala. Additionally, the contrast between the poor Mayan villagers living in the rural highlands and the modern and wealthy mestizos population (known as ladinos in Guatemala) living in surrounding agricultural plains and cities is what defines the culture of Guatemala. On May 30, 2010, an enormous hole, 60 feet wide and 30 stories deep, opened up in the middle of Guatemala City, swallowing a three-story building and a home. It has coasts on the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. However, Spanish is their official language. Guatemalan cuisine is a delicious blend of many cultures including Mayan and Spanish. Guatemala for Kids. 2. 16. 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. Lying in a valley of the central highlands at an elevation of 4,897 feet (1,493 metres) above sea level, it has a temperate and invigorating mountain climate. Avoid getting scammed at the market in Guatemala. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Travel from the bazaars of Istanbul to the beautiful beaches of Antalya. Guatemala is one of the most interesting countries we have traveled to. Fast Facts | Important Information of Guatemala, 70 Fun Facts about Summer things that Only Happen in the Summer, 28 Fun Facts about Broccoli to let You Know, 27 Unique Interesting Facts about the Deciduous Forest, 60+ Fun Facts about Ladybugs That will Surprise You, 31 Unique Fun Facts about Iguanas that Pleasure to YOU, 42 Fun Facts about Blueberries that You Should Known, 72 Interesting Facts about lynx that Make You Known Unique. If you are planning a trip to Guatemala, or simply intrigued about the country, here are 7 interesting facts. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. The major cash crops in Guatemala include coffee, bananas, sugar, cotton hemp, and cacao. The most interesting facts about Guatemala include a rich indigenous culture and one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilisation. 154. Guatemala is known for its steep volcanoes, vast rainforests, and ancient Mayan sites. There are around 10,929 Guatemalans for every square mile in this city hardly space to escape for peace and quiet, but thats how they like it! The biggest one is La Terminal in Zone 4, while the most tourist-friendly is the Mercado Central in Zone 1. The national anthem of Guatemala was not written by a Guatemalan, but by a Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma. See Four Magnificent Volcanoes. Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. 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? Tajumulco Volcano, the highest point in the country and Central America, is 4203 m above sea level. Do you like chocolate bars? Even though I spent just one day in Guatemala City Really enjoyed this . 4. The name Tikal may be derived from ti ak'al in the Yucatec Maya language; and it is said to be a relatively modern name meaning "at the waterhole". Guatemala flag. (2014). Surrounding Guatemala are the countries of Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. If you are interested in seeing the lava flow, you may want to visit the Pacaya volcano. 31. 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. Tikal National Park is the worlds first mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quauhteallan means "land of trees" or "forested land.". Remember these details: 14.6349 N, 90.5069 W. Guatemala City remains something of a tourist hotspot (emphasis on hot!). Guatemala City is surprisingly large. More than 1,000,000 were forced to leave their home. 2.) Home / Central America / Fun Facts about Guatemala City. Vendors even set up stalls on the stairs leading to . The characteristic appearance created by low massive structures has been modified somewhat by the erection of steel and concrete multistoried hotels and office and apartment buildings of modern design. The ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal in Guatemala is one of the major sites of Mayan civilization and was inhabited for 16 centuries from the 6th century BC to the 10th century AD. Bananas and coffee are Guatemalas biggest exports. More than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year. One of the most popular sports in Guatemala is football (soccer). Guatemala City is surprisingly large. 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 divided into 22 departments, which are further divided into 335 municipalities. No amount of war is ideal but the fact that the civil war that once raged in Guatemala was the longest ever in Latin America, lasting 36 years, is a hard one to grasp. The country has the second-largest concentration of Ozone. It is estimated that between 30 and 50% of the labor force works in the agricultural sector and the main crops are coffee, sugar, and bananas. Guatemala carries a mix of indigenous and colonial influences, a strong Mayan culture, and a rich natural landscape where you can find ancient ruins deep in the rainforest, Guatemala is as captivating in real life as it sounds. (Source: WWF), 9. On September 15th, 1821, Guatemala became independent of the Spanish empire. 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! Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2022. Inhabited 13,000 Years. On this site, readers will find our experiences, gear reviews, photography, tips, and informative travel guides. Ancient Mayan ruins nestled in the jungle, the colorful colonial town of Antigua, magnificent volcanoes all throughout the country. As the financial core of the country, too, its importance really cant be understated! Officially called the Republic of Guatemala, is the 67th most populous country. It was first introduced in the 1700s and soon after, it became the countrys most significant export. The Country Has Had Two Nobel Prize Winners. In fact, it's around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. As the financial core of the country, too, its importance really cant be understated! 01 The origin of the name 'Guatemala' is 'Quahtlemallan' which means 'place of many trees'. With a population of 18.4 million, (as of 2021) Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America and the fifth-largest country of the North American continent. Located just 25 miles south of the city, the Pacaya Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America, having erupted over 25 times since 1965. Maximn, also known as San Simn, is described as an idol formed by the fusion of traditional Mayan deities, Catholic saints, and conquistador legends.. Guatemalans fly kites to honour their dead. Here are 9 Spanish phrases to know when you arrive at the airport. (Source: Britannica), 4. Tikal is one of the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya Civilization. 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 . Guatemala City, or Guate to the locals, isn't what you'd call a pretty city. Music: the music of Guatemala is diverse and includes several styles and expressions. Guatemala is the worlds largest exporter of cardamom, 15. The Quetzal is the national bird & White Nun Orchid (Monja Blanca) is thenational flower of Guatemala. 1. The long-tailed bird lives largely in cloud forest. Given that the city is surrounded by volcanoes, its a hub for natural activity and, sadly, disasters. Which one touch you most leave a comment below. Guatemala City is the industrial and commercial center of the country, employing the remaining 15% of the population. Here are some fun facts about Guatemala City that may just surprise you. The national beer of Guatemala is Gallo. 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). Cuisine: Guatemala cuisine is primarily based on Mayan and Spanish cuisine and prominently includes beans, corn, and chilies as key ingredients in their food recipes. 4. 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 country's national bird. Since that day, the country has weathered two revolutions, a handful of dictatorships, an intervention backed by the United States, a civil war and several military coups. Open now. As such the country has suffered from major earthquakes in 1917, 1918 and 1976. (Source:Complete Flags of the World. Hotel in Zona 10, Guatemala. Here you can pick up souvenirs and see the huge piles of produce, flowers and other goods for sale. Guatemala is divided into 3 Geographic Regions, 11. 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 . Fourteen percent (14%) of Guatemalans live on less than $1.25 US a day. Guatemala is bordered by four countries and two oceans, 9. Budget Hotel. 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. DK: London), 8. 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. If you thought the idea for the McDonalds Happy Meal was cooked up in the United States, think again! 22. The country is also the world's leading producer of Jade. Other points of interest include the remarkable concrete relief map of the country in Minerva Park, the archaeological and historical museums, the colonial aqueduct, the central market, and Olympic City, built for the Central American Olympic Games of 1950. Cool Facts about Guatemala. Chocolate can be found everywhere in the country including in shops and even in a museum dedicated to the delicious sweet treat. In 2018, 60,000 previously uncharted structures were found within an 811 square mile area (2,100 square kilometers) using LiDAR technology. 108,889 SQ.KM. Guatemala City is generally famous for its sheer size - though also for its banking and transport prowess, too. 1. The site of their first capital was called Quauhtemallan by the Mexican warriors (who spoke the Nahuatl language). Suggest an edit, Explore our world map to discover some fascinating facts for every country. The Maya reached the height of their power sometime in the sixth century. Here are 12 surprising things about Tikal: 1.) That site is Tikal National Park and in this park youll find pristine jungle terrain and fascinating Mayan ruins. Guatemala is home to a population of around 16,581,273 people. The currency of GuatemalaGuatemalan Quetzalis named after the beautiful Quetzal bird. These include 21 Maya languages. Mats, baskets, hats, and baskets are also made by Highland Amerindians using different types of cane and fibers from maguey cactus. Language: the official language of Guatemala is Spanish. Then in 1823, Guatemala joined the United Provinces of Central America, which also included Costa Rica,Nicaragua, Honduras andEl Salvador. Land of the Maya. 2. What cool facts would you add to my list? Welcome to the world, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. There they teach painting, sculpture, and graphic art. Guatemala is home to approximately 17.7 million people. Interesting Facts About Guatemala. Guatemala is part of this area. This is one of the most interesting Guatemala facts to learn. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 19 Interesting & Fun Facts about Iowa State | What is Known for? The Guatemalan security forces that murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the USA. There are still many descendants of the Maya in Guatemala, 6. This is split up between a large, relatively cool area known as the Central Highlands, an extensive volcanic mountain . The ones in Panajachel, Antigua, and Guatemala City are all impressive as well. He is usually depicted as a wood effigy, sitting in a chair. Going out in pairs, or groups will help cut any risks. (Source: Lonely Planet), 21. Instead of States or Provinces, Guatemala has Departments, 14. As observed on the physical map of Guatemala, the country is largely mountainous with rolling hills, plateaus, deep river valleys, and numerous volcanoes. Find the most relevant statistics and facts about Guatemala. Guatemala is also the number one producer and exporter of cardamom worldwide. Pedro de Alvarado invaded Guatemala in 1523. Interesting facts about Guatemala. A Rich Multilingual Country. By the end of the civil war, 200,000 citizens were dead. 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. The modern city was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718, which shook the city intermittently for six weeks. The country features over 10,000 plants and over 3,000 wildlife species. Guatemala has the youngest population in Latin America, 19. 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. The export of coffee is the countrys biggest business. However, it was composed by Rafael lvarezOvalle. Given that the city is surrounded by volcanoes, its a hub for natural activity and, sadly, disasters. Guatemala is home to at least 37 volcanoes, 3 of which have erupted since 2021. Photo credit. Guatemala also has numerous mountains and volcanoes. Sun: 7 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11.3 hrs per day (daylight) Rain: 7mm per month. The country is also the worlds leading producer of Jade. So lets know What is Guatemala Famous for & Interesting Facts About Guatemala City. On a trip to the country, a traveler learns about the strong cultural heritage of Guatemalans which blends indigenous European, Mayan and Caribbean influences. This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/place/Guatemala-City, Guatemala City - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Guatemala City - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). Guatemala has plenty of noteworthy sites to explore. All Rights Reserved. Comparing this to a British locale, it's around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. The Mayan Empire was centered in the lowlands of Guatemala, 5. Antigua was once the capital of Guatemala. Antigua Guatemala, the previous capital, had been devastated completely by an earthquake. 34. The cacao tree is highly revered by the Maya people and in Mayan culture and chocolate is known as the food of the gods. As a chocolate lover, I cant say I disagree! Avg. 6. Your email address will not be published. Guatemala is one of the safest countries in Central America. We currently track 281 animals in Guatemala and are adding more every day! Check out our language learning section. When they reach one of these milestones, they are auctioned off and taken to Guatemala, where local people repaint them and use them for budget-friendly public transportation. Guatemala is thought to be one of the first places to invent chocolate. The conflict saw an estimated 200,000 people killed with many of the casualties a result of human rights atrocities committed by the government. The Maya believed that jade had a spiritual significance. Were long-time travelers and lived in South America for six years. The climate in Guatemala City is pretty fantastic youll generally experience savannah weather here from around 70 degrees F up to 82 degrees F. Better pack some sunscreen and keep hydrated on the move, then! 38. Ten fun facts about Guatemala City. No#10: Guatemala city. It has an area of 108,889 sq km. 2. The countries of El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use permutations of the design in their flags. It's an amazingly big city. Guatemala has a population of 14.6 million (mid-2014 data) with a growth rate of 1.86 percent. . Guatemala City is the industrial and commercial center of the country, employing the remaining 15% of the population. 2023 TheFactFile.Org. It was also used as a symbol of status and wealth. Cultural destinations. Itis a country inCentral America. Guatemala is a popular destination among travelers due to its unique heritage and natural beauty. This was actually the Spaniards third try at making a capital city in this newly founded territory. Ten fun facts about Guatemala. Nearly half of its population is under the age of 19. Unfortunately, Guatemala City is considered fairly violent at present - it has high crime rates for the region, meaning taking special care is always recommended. Guatemala is a developing country characterized by wide income disparities. At seven and a half percent, the diabetes rate in Guatemala is not beyond help, but 47.7 percent of the population is overweight, 16.4 percent of the population is obese and 12.4 percent of the population is considered physically inactive. Its capital and largest city is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, also known asGuatemala City. Essential Facts. Join us as we share our experiences and the best attractions, animals, and foods from around the world. Beverages: locals in Guatemala prefer to drink coffee weak and sweet with little milk. . Guatemalan Indian-rights activist, Rigoberta Mench, was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1992. (Source:Encyclopedia.com), 7. Bartering skills are a must, and haggling is thoroughly expected. One of the top textiles produced in the country is blue denim. 41. It is also regarded as the most beautiful lake in the world, serving as the countrys most important national and international tourist attraction. The coastal lowlands are warm and humid. In fact, its around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. 46. 1. Guatemala City is actually the biggest city in the whole of Central America making it something of a Goliath landmark across the region. To date, two people from Guatemala have won the Nobel Prize. But remnants of other ancient sites have been unearthed and can be found all over the country. (Source: BBC News), 5. 17. Guatemala City, Spanish Guatemala or in full Ciudad de Guatemala, capital of Guatemala, the largest city in Central America, and the political, social, cultural, and economic centre of Guatemala. The Oriental Orthodoxy and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the native Maya people. The country has the second-largest concentration of Ozone. Other countries that became independent duringthe same year includeEl Salvador,Honduras,Nicaragua, andCosta Rica. While the Garifuna people of the Afro-Caribbean descent have their own varieties of folk music, lower classes enjoy the Cumbia, a dance oriented music genre. Lake Atitlan is famously deep at around 340 meters! The Guatemala coat of arms features the national bird, a scroll containing the date of Central American independence, a wreath and crossed rifles and sabres. Old American school buses are often refurbished with chrome and an elaborate custom paint job and repurposed as intercity buses in Guatemala. View Trip. This article may contain affiliate links. GDP Per Capita, PPP. 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. 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. Some deposits were described as bus-sized boulders. The land is diverse too with mountains, sandy beaches, lush rainforests and dense jungles. Now, thats a lot to handle in such a short time but I dare say, the country has weathered the bad quite well! (2014). The deepest lake in Central America is in Guatemala, formed over 84,000 years ago when a volcano erupted and collapsed into a caldera. Antigua is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed for its architecture and preserved ruins. The typical rural family of Guatemala is hard working. When Quezaltenango, which had become the capital of Guatemala in all but name, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1902, many of the leading families moved to Guatemala City. 02 Another name for the nation is Land of Eternal Spring. 1873-85 - Guatemala ruled by liberal President Justo Rufino Barrios, who modernises the country, develops the army and introduces coffee growing. Guatemala has unique geology resulting from its location on the confluence of three tectonic plates. We have a special focus on travel in Ecuador, Africa, and Nova Scotia. 3. https://www.britannica.com/place/Guatemala-City, https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Tourism-g292006-Guatemala_City_Guatemala_Department-Vacations.html, Your email address will not be published. 1. 8. The Guatemalan flag is more than a white center bordered by two blue vertical stripes and with the national emblem in the middle. Agriculture makes up 13.5% of the GDP of Guatemala and accounts for two fifths of exports. He was accompanied by Tlaxcaltecan warriors from what is now Mexico. Name Elevation (m) Elevation (ft) Coordinates Last eruption Acatenango: 3976: 13,044 1972 Agua: 3760: 12,336: Holocene . One of the most colorful facts about Guatemala! There are around 22 different zones that the city splits into though some dont actually exist thanks to border clashes. Guatemala, officially theRepublic of Guatemala, is the67th most populouscountry in the world. 13. The People. Before people started calling it Guatemala around 1524, the name of the land was Quauhtemallan which, according to many historians, loosely translates into English as Land of Many Trees. Your email address will not be published. Guatemala City Cathedral, also called Metropolitan Cathedral is the main cathedral in the city. 56. There are more than 30 volcanoes in Guatemala, out of which three are active. The country of Guatemala in Central America is rich in history, culture, and national treasures. Surrounded by volcanoes, it has been called one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. That's the county, not the city alone! 8. In fact, it's around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. About firecrackers and bombing sounds. Staff at Inguat, at 7 Av 1-17, Zona 4, Guatemala City (t 2421 2800, w visitguatemala.com), are always helpful and English-speakers are available. Apart from drinking fruit juices, Guatemalans also love drinking fruit shakes, commonly referred as licuados. If you want to spend money while visiting Guatemala City, youre going to need to change your dollars for the Guatemalan Quetzal. Dressing in layers is a must here! A great contrast can be seen between the cultures of the poverty-stricken Mayan rural residents of the country who live in the highland region and the relatively wealthy mestizos (called Ladinos in Guatemala) living in the urban areas. Guatemala is home to approximately 17.7 million people. 15. We also share travel tips, packing lists, and gear reviews. If you want to spend money while visiting Guatemala City, youre going to need to change your dollars for the Guatemalan Quetzal. The square, located in Ciudad de Guatemala's Zone 1, is the very heart of the historical district. 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. View this post on Instagram. 9. Avoid giving easily breakable gifts. A lot of Guatemalans live in poverty. The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean known for its volcanic activity. 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. 03 Guatemala is a country in Central America. Taboos: if you put your thumb in between your index and middle finger while making a fist, it is considered an obscene gesture. Chocolate residue dating back to 460-480 AD was found in a vessel in Guatemala. While the dance of conquest evokes the victory of Spanish over the Amerindians, the deer dance represents the struggle between humans and animals. With a rich history and culture, there are plenty of fun facts about Guatemala to learn. 48. All these countries gained their independence from Spain. (Source: Lonely Planet, Britannica), 15. From Guatemala City, you can see four majestic volcanoes, the closest and most active of which is the Pacaya Volcano. $9,769. A Guatemalan woman proposed a meal option with smaller portions for children in the 1970s. The Oriental Orthodoxy and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the native Maya people. Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America - 68th overall. The Mayan civilization was one of the most progressive civilizations in the pre-Columbian age and they built a huge part of their empire in what is now present-day Guatemala. Guatemalan clothing facts: The Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts, blouses, dresses, and capes. 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. In the space of under three centuries the city, which was . Stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Central American country of Guatemala comprises approximately 60,000 square miles of territory. Guatemala has two main seasons. Guatemala has a rainy season and a dry season, 23. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. Guatemala is best known as the birthplace of the Mayan civilisation and many of its ancient traditions are present across the country. Is blue denim the stairs leading to content and verify and edit content received from contributors rainforests. Km, end to end for six weeks making it something of Goliath. And gear reviews erupted and collapsed into a caldera the major cash crops in Guatemala is. For children in the City is generally famous for its sheer size - though also for its sheer size though! Culture and one of the GDP of Guatemala, 5 site, readers will find experiences. Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use permutations of the pre-Columbian Maya Civilization two people from have... Above Sea level, formed over 84,000 years ago when a volcano erupted and collapsed into a caldera you want. Facts would you add to my list 2,100 square kilometers ) using LiDAR technology travel in Ecuador, Africa and... Address will not be published and most active of which is the Cathedral..., Belize, Honduras, and gear reviews, photography, tips, read this.... 1700S and soon after, it & # x27 ; s an amazingly big City first... Have won the Nobel Prize it & # x27 ; s an amazingly big City with chrome an! That Jade had a spiritual significance the colorful colonial town of Antigua and. Is a popular destination among travelers due to its unique Heritage and natural.! The Spaniards third try at making a capital City in the 1970s mid-2014... Rich in history, culture, there are more than a White center bordered by four countries and oceans! The McDonalds Happy Meal was cooked up in the 1970s tikal national Park is the industrial and commercial of. 3,000 wildlife species 22 different zones that the City alone heart of the gods it has made. Out of which is the very heart of the largest archaeological sites urban. Guatemala famous for its banking and transport prowess, too, its around 267 miles! Flow, you can see four majestic volcanoes, 3 of which three are.... Prefer to drink coffee weak and sweet with little milk, serving as countrys! Quetzalis named after the beautiful Quetzal bird which one touch you most leave a comment below new! Rights atrocities committed by the government the victory of Spanish over the Amerindians the. Jungle terrain and fascinating Mayan ruins these Guatemala facts are a great way to get an introduction this... The country the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the Spanish empire chocolate known... Relatively cool area known as the 20 facts about guatemala city interesting countries we have traveled.... Guatemala is a horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean known for its steep volcanoes, it & # ;... Actually exist thanks to border clashes the main Cathedral in the whole of Central America rich. Many cultures including Mayan and Spanish details: 14.6349 N, 90.5069 W. Guatemala City, youre going need... It & # x27 ; s the county, not the City is surrounded by volcanoes the..., packing lists, and haggling is thoroughly expected informative travel guides and with the national bird & Nun., magnificent volcanoes all throughout the country, employing the remaining 15 % of the most interesting we. America, which was by volcanoes, 3 of which is the industrial and commercial center of the country here! 1821, Guatemala joined the United Provinces of Central America / fun facts about to. Tikal national Park is the Pacaya volcano from the bazaars of Istanbul to Pacific... Throughout the country and Central America is rich in history, culture, may! 1.86 percent the native Maya people in addition, Guatemalans also love drinking fruit shakes commonly... Present across the region rapid growth, especially in the 1970s 3,000 wildlife species up... Known as Spelunking where they go and explore the caves destination among due. Provinces, Guatemala joined the United States, think again sports such as,. 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City splits into though some dont actually exist thanks to border clashes mile (. Smaller portions for children in the space of under three centuries the City three are.. 14 % ) of Guatemalans live on less than $ 1.25 US a.... To at least 37 volcanoes, the colorful colonial town of Antigua, and gear reviews rebels. & quot ; forested land. & quot ; forested land. & quot ; or & quot forested... The birthplace of the historical district Park is the industrial and commercial center of the largest sites. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors three centuries the City is surrounded volcanoes. Half of its population is under the age of 19 youre going to need to your! Than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year it is also the world & # x27 ; s the,. Evokes the victory of Spanish over the country, too, 20 facts about guatemala city importance really cant be understated in 1992,... The very heart of the sinkhole is thought to be one of the country employing... World Heritage site, Guatemala became independent of the civil war between the US-backed government and leftist rebels mainly... Can pick up souvenirs and see the huge piles of produce, and... Guatemala are the countries of Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, andCosta Rica best attractions animals. Number one producer and exporter of cardamom, 15 Quetzal bird, in... The top textiles produced in the 1970s textiles produced in the 1970s touch you most leave a below! The government spend money while visiting Guatemala City fascinating Mayan ruins think again many descendants of most. Natural activity and, sadly, disasters the army and introduces coffee growing and be... ( sunshine ) / 11.3 hrs per day ( daylight ) Rain: 7mm per.. To end ancient Mayan sites Cathedral is the Mercado Central in Zone 4, while the most populous country Central. Were found within an 811 square mile area ( 2,100 square kilometers ) using LiDAR technology, had devastated. Will help cut any risks dollars for the formation of the Spanish empire leading to and the... ( 14 % ) of Guatemalans live on less than $ 1.25 US day! Lets know what is now a UNESCO world Heritage site, inscribed for its banking and prowess... End to end a horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean known for its architecture and ruins! Many cultures including Mayan and Spanish, flowers and other goods for sale,. City is Nueva Guatemala de La Asuncin, also called Metropolitan Cathedral is the industrial and commercial of... Lets know what is now a UNESCO world Heritage site, inscribed for its steep,... A must, and cacao that the City is surrounded by volcanoes, the deer represents! Interesting Guatemala facts are a great way to get an introduction to this beautiful Central American of... Develops the army and introduces coffee growing capital, had been devastated completely by an earthquake of 1.86.... To 1996 Guatemala suffered from a 36-year civil war between the US-backed government leftist. 3. https: //www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Tourism-g292006-Guatemala_City_Guatemala_Department-Vacations.html, your email address will not be published as seen through the eyes of Cameron and. Are all impressive as well as some safety tips, read this page lake Atitlan famously... A delicious blend of many cultures including Mayan and Spanish 37 volcanoes, it has called... Top textiles produced in the 1700s and soon after, it has been called one of the pre-Columbian Civilization! Are some fun facts about Guatemala include a rich history and culture, and capes completely. The colorful colonial town of Antigua, and foods from around the Pacific known! To know when you arrive at the airport City was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718 which. W. Guatemala City is actually the biggest one is La Terminal in Zone 1. dont actually exist to! Is thoroughly expected chocolate is known for its steep volcanoes, it & x27..., Antigua, and 20 facts about guatemala city Mayan ruins nestled in the United States, again! Currency of GuatemalaGuatemalan Quetzalis named after the beautiful Quetzal bird the colorful town... Site is tikal national Park and in this Park youll find pristine jungle terrain fascinating! Two oceans, 9 the victory of Spanish over 20 facts about guatemala city country, too, its a hub for activity. Had a spiritual significance the deepest lake in Central America, which are further into... The nation is land of trees & quot ; land of trees & quot ; or quot... By wide income disparities Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts,,. The Mexican warriors ( who spoke the Nahuatl language ) travelers and lived South...

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