Chichicastenango
The main characteristics of Santo Tomas Chichicastenango have always been its turism, folclor and its market days on thursdays and sundays. Chichicastenango is visited by thousands of national and international turists every year especially during the change of the cofradias or brotherhoods and its saint day. In contrast with previous decades, Chichicastenango has been loosing its traditional infrastructure to modern constructions that have nothing to do with its traditional colonial aspect. Chichicastenango is located 2300 metres above sea level, covered in fog and surrounded by valleys and mountains. Despite its isolation, it has kept its importance as a commercial enclave.
Market day during sundays is very special because the brotherhoods have a procession during that day. The inhabitants of the place have joined Catholic and Mayan traditions. To enjoy more of these traditions, the best places are the Church of Santo Tomas and Pascual Abaj. Pascual Abaj is a Mayan sanctuary built in honor of the Mayan God of the Earth. Visitor find a town with a special colonial flavor and full of mixed traditions.
