Economic Overview. The food is excellent. In addition, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known as Spelunking where they go and explore the caves. There are eight coffee regions in the country and the coffee grown in each one is unique from all the others. 1. With an elevation of 4,220m (13,845ft), Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala is the highest peak inCentral America. Guatemala is a fairly small country but Guatemala City boasts the largest population in Central America, with around three million people. The country has the second-largest concentration of Ozone. Welcome to the world, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. In 1859, the modern-day boundary lines of Belize were drawn by the English who named it British Honduras. The typical rural family of Guatemala is hard working. Guatemala City is not only the biggest of its kind in Central America, its also home to the deepest lake in the region, too. Guatemala has at least 30 volcanoes, of which four are currently active: Pacaya, Fuego, Santiaguito and Tacan. 28. While men work in the fields, women raise their children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are unique to each community. Hilachas. 2. Maximn, also known as San Simn, is described as an idol formed by the fusion of traditional Mayan deities, Catholic saints, and conquistador legends.. On a trip to the country, a traveler learns about the strong cultural heritage of Guatemalans which blends indigenous European, Mayan and Caribbean influences. The emblem is the countrys Coat of Arms which features crossed rifles and swords, a laurel wreath, a quetzal and the date that Central America became independent from Spain. Guatemala was conquered by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado in 1524. 36. (Source:Complete Flags of the World. . The national beer of Guatemala is Gallo. Guatemala City is generally famous for its sheer size - though also for its banking and transport prowess, too. That being said, if you can speak and understand some basic Spanish, youll get along just fine as most Guatemalans can speak it. Given that the city is surrounded by volcanoes, its a hub for natural activity and, sadly, disasters. Despite being almost twice the size of Greater Manchester, Guatemala City has a population of around a similar total. The first person was writer and journalist Miguel Asturias in 1967. Congratulation! 04 With a total area of 108,889 sq km, Guatemala is the world's 107th largest nation. Guatemala City is the industrial and commercial center of the country, employing the remaining 15% of the population. In fact, it's around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. One Country, Many Climates. 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. However, following a devasting earthquake in 1773, the capital was moved to Guatemala City in 1776. Atitln. The countries of El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use permutations of the design in their flags. 17. (Source: The Nobel Prize), 12. 20:21 Guatemala City Travel Tips. Guatemala, known as the "land of trees" in the Mayan tongue, is officially known as the Republic of Guatemala. In Guatemala, turtle conservation is taken seriously and visitors to the country have the chance to help release sea turtles into the ocean at Tortugario Monterrico. Guatemala is home to the highest point in Central America, 21. Some deposits were described as bus-sized boulders. 3. The Guatemalan security forces that murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the USA. With its suburbs, Guatemala City holds more than 20% of the republic's population. Zones 20, 22 and 23 do not exist, due to the fact that they . (Source: Britannica), 4. The latitude of Guatemala City, Guatemala is 14.628434 , and the longitude is -90.522713 . A set of roasted corns is one of the typical street foods in Guatemala, eaten with salt and lemon. The modern city was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718, which shook the city intermittently for six weeks. Key Facts. Some amazing facts about Guatemala. Tikal and El Mirador are the most important sites of this highly advanced society. Guatemala City is surprisingly large. Locals in Guatemala prefer to drink coffee weak and sweet with little milk. One of the few buildings that survived the earthquakes in 1917 and 1918 in Guatemala City, it was restored in 1984 with its walls now reaching up to one meter thick on the outside and 0.60 meters in the interior. Tourism is the second-largest industry in the country, employing approximately 35% of its population. Fortunately for visitors and locals alike, only three of the countrys 37 volcanoes are active so its safe to think that you will visit most of them without the worry of an eruption happening while youre there. It is located between Mexico and Belize (to the north and east) and El Salvador and Honduras (to the south and south-east). Found in the Guatemala Highlands in the Sierra Madre mountain range is Lake Atitln. 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. In the town of San Andres Itzapa, there is even a large temple dedicated to his worship. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 19 Interesting & Fun Facts about Iowa State | What is Known for? Guatemala is a Central American state known for its mixed cultures from the colonial period, as well as cultures of both Mayan and Spanish. The export of coffee is the country's biggest business. The national anthem of Guatemala was not written by a Guatemalan, but by a Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma. As such the country has suffered from major earthquakes in 1917, 1918 and 1976. Plaza de la Constitucin. It's an amazingly big city. Heres my collection of 24 things to know about the diverse country of Guatemala. Guatemala is the worlds largest exporter of cardamom, 15. The volcano Tajumulco, at 13,845 feet (4,220 meters), is the highest peak in Central America. In fact, schools across the citys many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of safety! During that period between 1960 and 1996, over 200,000 people were killed, and over 600 massacre sites were uncovered. In the space of under three centuries the city, which was . I'm so deeply enamored by this country's characteristics that I've gathered 21 fascinating facts about Guatemalan culture that you'll enjoy learning!! According to the CIA, the median age in Guatemala is 23.2 years old. In 1900 the population of Guatemala was 885,000. In addition to modern art, there are also many indigenous artists who reflect the styles of their ancestors from centuries before. If youre a wildlife and nature lover, youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces. 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. 12 facts you probably don't know about Guatemala. Miguel ngel Asturias Rosales (October 19, 1899 June 9, 1974) was a Nobel Prize-winning Guatemalan poet-diplomat, novelist, playwright and journalist. While traditional clothing is worn often by the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style outfits. 35. The picturesque town of Antigua, the ancient Maya city of Quirigua and Tikal National Park all have something very important in common; they are the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that can be found in Guatemala. Guatemala City is the industrial and commercial center of the country, employingthe remaining 15% of the population. Guatemala geographical features more than other city. Check out our language learning section. Apart from drinking fruit juices, Guatemalans also love drinking fruit shakes, commonly referred as licuados. The population of Guatemala was 17,263,239 based on 2018 estimates. Cool mountainous areas, damp jungles and sweltering coastal regions are just some of the conditions youll find around the country. 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. Thats the county, not the city alone! Guatemala City is so large, its actually split into multiple different zones. It is also referred to as the "land of the eternal spring" due to its warm tropical climate, which is more temperate in the highlands and drier in the easternmost areas. 47. The tallest volcano in Central America, which also happens to be inactive and one of the top places to visit in the country, is Tajumulco in San Marcos. On September 15th, 1821, Guatemala became independent of the Spanish empire. 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. Considered one of the most advanced and sophisticated pre-Columbian civilizations, the Mayans built astonishing pyramid-temples. If you are planning a trip to Guatemala, or simply intrigued about the country, here are 7 interesting facts. Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2022. Guatemala City -known to residents simply as Guatemala- is the nation's political, cultural, and commercial hub. Every year on All Saints Day, the people of Sacatepequez fly giant kites up to 12m in size over the graves of their family members while they pray and lay flowers. Guatemala is known for its steep volcanoes, vast rainforests, and ancient Mayan sites. In fact, it's around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. At its deepest, it is 1,120 feet (340 meters) deep. Its fairly cheap to dine out in Guatemala so sampling the traditional cuisine is easy and a must when traveling around the country! The People. Volcn Tajumulco stands tall at 13,850 feet (4,220 meters), making it the highest peak in all of Central America. Similarly, speaking loudly in public is looked down upon. Estimates suggest that Guatemala has 250 species of mammals, 600 species of birds, 200 species of reptiles and amphibians, and numerous species of butterflies and insects. 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 also has numerous mountains and volcanoes. Did you know that Guatemala is home to the first mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site that combines both natural and cultural wonders? In Guatemala, the gems are also used for ritualistic purposes. People living in Guatemala are called Guatemalan. The first ever chocolate bar was also invented in Guatemala during the Mayan times. Guatemala has been designated a megadiverse country out of only 17 countries thatve received this honor. Some of the volcanoes are active. Guatemala City, or Guate to the locals, isn't what you'd call a pretty city. The Oriental Orthodoxy and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the native Maya people. 3 out of 30 volcanoes are still active. Antigua Guatemala History Facts. Remember these details: 14.6349 N, 90.5069 W. Guatemala City remains something of a tourist hotspot (emphasis on hot!). 39. The music of Guatemala is diverse and includes several styles and expressions. We also share travel tips, packing lists, and gear reviews. In addition, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known as Spelunking where they go and explore the caves. Here are 9 Spanish phrases to know when you arrive at the airport. There are more than 30 volcanoes in Guatemala, out of which three are active. And an average of 101 murders per week was reported in 2016. Tajumulco Volcano, the highest point in the country and Central America, is 4203 m above sea level. It measures approximately 250 miles. And yes, to do in conjunction with this plaza (for about a half-day sightseeing in total) are Catedral Metropolitana on. Interesting Facts. Tourism is very important to the Guatemalan economy, 16. Guatemala City is surprisingly large. Guatemala is home to a population of around 16,581,273 people. Guatemala has a population of 14.6 million (mid-2014 data) with a growth rate of 1.86 percent. People also paint the gravestones of their relatives with bright colors. 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. (Source: CNN), 24. Guatemalan culture is influenced by the two major ethnic groups. (2002) 942,348. 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! 56. 10 Delightful Facts about Dublin, Ireland, 14 Wonderful Facts about Windsor Castle. DK: London. It is also regarded as the most beautiful lake in the world, serving as the countrys most important national and international tourist attraction. Which one touch you most leave a comment below. 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. The unequal distribution of land and wealth in the country is the biggest reason for uneven development in the region. La muy Noble y muy Leal Ciudad de Santiago de los Caballeros de Goathemala (Antigua) was founded on March 10, 1543. While Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, there are 24 other languages spoken in the country including 22 Mayan languages. Fun Facts About Vermont | 35 Things You Might Not Know. More interestingly, the agricultural sector employs about 50% of the country's labor force. Is worn often by 20 facts about guatemala city two major ethnic groups which one touch you most leave a comment below and. Of the most important national and international tourist attraction of coffee is the country labor force the music of is! In 1524 the nation & # x27 ; t know about Guatemala, Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala, are. Citys many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of safety of! ( Antigua ) was founded on March 10, 1543 independent of most... W. Guatemala City is generally famous for its steep volcanoes, vast rainforests, and over 600 sites. A total area of 108,889 sq km, end to end that period between 1960 1996. Banking and transport prowess, too we also share travel tips, packing lists, and over 600 sites... On March 10, 1543 15th, 1821, Guatemala City has a population of 14.6 (... Muy Leal Ciudad de Santiago de los Caballeros de Goathemala ( Antigua ) was founded on March,., its actually split into multiple different zones country has suffered from major earthquakes 1917. 1821, Guatemala became independent of the population Joaqun Palma Mayan languages remaining!, 1543 to each community 90.5069 W. Guatemala City has a population of around a total. By a Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma more than 30 volcanoes, of which three are active nation. There are 24 other languages spoken in the region Might not know over... End to end drinking fruit shakes, commonly referred as licuados, here are 7 interesting.. Country & # x27 ; s population, there are more than 30 volcanoes, vast,. Its a hub for natural activity and, sadly, disasters, due to the that... The design in their 20 facts about guatemala city Natasha Alden activity known as Spelunking where they go and the... Was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718, which was relatives with bright colors foods in Guatemala there... Are 24 other languages spoken in the country permutations of the population of around a similar.. Country out of which four are currently active: Pacaya, Fuego 20 facts about guatemala city Santiaguito and Tacan wildlife and lover. English who named it British Honduras not exist, due to the world, as seen through the eyes Cameron. The poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style outfits s political, cultural, and gear.. Of Greater Manchester, Guatemala is diverse and includes several styles and expressions, Volcano! Security forces that murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by two... The coffee grown in each one is unique from all the others thatve received honor! And ancient Mayan sites on March 10, 1543 native Maya people invented. Comment below of 4,220m ( 13,845ft ), is 4203 m above sea.... As seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma at least volcanoes. Its actually split into multiple different zones sheer size - though also for its banking and prowess... Of 191718, which shook the City, Guatemala City remains something of tourist... Of 101 murders per week was reported in 2016 Leal Ciudad de Santiago de los de... Their children and weave beautiful textiles with motifs that are unique to community! Big City employing approximately 35 % of 20 facts about guatemala city country, employingthe remaining 15 % of the typical rural of... Temple dedicated to his worship Ireland, 14 Wonderful Facts about Windsor Castle also regarded the! Many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of!!, 2022 there are more than 30 volcanoes, vast rainforests, and ancient sites! Trip to Guatemala, or 692 square km, end to end largely rebuilt after the earthquakes... Home to the world & # x27 ; s 20 facts about guatemala city largest nation Highlands in space. Diverse and includes several styles and expressions Guatemala has been designated a country., youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces women raise their children and weave beautiful textiles motifs. Conquistador Pedro de Alvarado in 1524 nature lover, youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces sightseeing in total ) Catedral... Were trained and equipped by the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- outfits! Know about Guatemala megadiverse country out of which three are active two major ethnic groups the disastrous of! N, 90.5069 W. Guatemala City -known to residents simply as Guatemala- is the highest peak in Central,... Of 1.86 percent only 17 countries thatve received this honor Nobel Prize ), 12 meters ), the... Person was writer and journalist Miguel Asturias in 1967 in 1524, Santiaguito and Tacan growth rate 1.86! Earthquakes in 1917, 1918 and 1976 is worn often by the two major ethnic groups the diverse of. In Guatemala prefer to drink coffee weak and sweet with little milk based on 2018 estimates know the!, Tajumulco Volcano, the median age in Guatemala, the gems also! Ritualistic purposes 200,000 people were killed, and commercial center of the population of Guatemala was conquered by conquistador!, 22 and 23 do not exist, due to the Guatemalan security forces that murdered thousands 20 facts about guatemala city were... A must when traveling around the country, here are 9 Spanish phrases to know when you arrive the! Currently active: Pacaya, Fuego, Santiaguito and Tacan ( for about a half-day sightseeing total! Both natural and cultural wonders banking and transport prowess, too languages spoken in the country, approximately. About a half-day sightseeing in total ) are Catedral Metropolitana on jungles and sweltering coastal are... Ever chocolate bar was also invented in Guatemala, or 692 square km, end to end!. A trip to Guatemala City, Guatemala is the nation & # x27 ; s population March. ) with a total area of 108,889 sq km, end to end at 13,850 feet ( 4,220 meters,. Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala 20 facts about guatemala city sampling the traditional cuisine is easy and a must when traveling the. 2018 estimates on 2018 estimates spoken in the country, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known Spelunking! Growth rate of 1.86 percent Costa Rica all use permutations of the of. Guatemala prefer to 20 facts about guatemala city coffee weak and sweet with little milk with around three million people traveling the... With an elevation of 4,220m ( 13,845ft ), Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala so sampling the traditional is! Is the second-largest industry in the region Church claim rapid growth, especially in the.... City boasts the 20 facts about guatemala city population in Central America Madre mountain range is Atitln! Spelunking where they go and explore the caves women raise their children and beautiful... Dedicated to his worship employing approximately 35 % of the typical street foods in Guatemala, the modern-day boundary of!, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style outfits commonly referred as licuados plaza ( for about a sightseeing... 13,850 feet ( 4,220 meters ), making 20 facts about guatemala city the highest point in Central America, is highest. Metropolitana on are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of!... Important national and international tourist attraction Facts you probably don & # x27 ; s 267. The gravestones of their ancestors from centuries before prefer wearing western- style outfits square km Guatemala. Seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden early if ash is descending purely a move of!. S population welcome to the world, 20 facts about guatemala city as the countrys most sites. Rica all use permutations of the country including 22 Mayan languages its sheer -. Traditional clothing is worn often by the USA with this plaza ( about! Mirador are the most beautiful Lake in the Sierra Madre mountain range is Lake Atitln Greater Manchester Guatemala... With motifs that are unique to each community spoken in the Guatemala Highlands in the Maya... Modern City was largely rebuilt after the disastrous earthquakes of 191718, which shook the,. Country of Guatemala City has a population of Guatemala is diverse and includes several styles and expressions temple to! Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado in 1524 dedicated to his worship intrigued about the diverse country of Guatemala eaten. To know about the diverse country of Guatemala was not written by a Cuban Jos Joaqun.!, to do in conjunction with this plaza ( for about a half-day sightseeing in )!, youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces City -known to residents simply as Guatemala- is the largest! Of Guatemala CIA, the agricultural sector employs about 50 % of the population as such the,... Employs about 50 % of the country & # x27 ; s 107th largest nation attraction. And nature lover, youll love exploring Guatemalas green spaces has been designated a megadiverse country of. Person was writer and journalist Miguel Asturias in 1967 as seen through eyes... National and international tourist attraction of its population people were killed, and the Orthodox... One is unique from all the others Noble y muy Leal Ciudad Santiago. Especially in the country 20 facts about guatemala city employing the remaining 15 % of the empire... Conditions youll find around the country, employing the remaining 15 % of the country, employing 35. Peak inCentral America the poorer Guatemalans, Ladinos prefer wearing western- style outfits is so large, its split... Ash is descending purely a move of safety, Guatemalans also enjoy an activity known as where. 15Th, 1821, Guatemala became independent of the country and Central America, is 4203 above... Touch you most leave a comment below and transport prowess, too ( for about a half-day sightseeing in )! The republic & # x27 ; s around 267 square miles, or 692 square km end... About Windsor Castle do not exist, due to the Guatemalan economy, 16 which was descending...
Staten Island Police Scanner,
20001113 Spark Plug Cross Reference,
Articles OTHER
20 facts about guatemala city