Guatemala

In this blog we are going to observe and learn about many customs, traditions and landscapes that make up Guatemala:

Customs and traditions:

• The kites of Sumpango Sacatepéquez:
  
  Are colorful kites that rise into the sky during All Saints' Day. This tradition, part of the Day of the Dead in Guatemala, symbolizes the connection between the world of the living and the world of the dead. The kites, adorned with intricate designs and messages, are flown in a festival that also celebrates cultural identity and local creativity.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• The dance of the flying stick:
  
  Is an ancient tradition in Guatemala that involves participants descending from a high pole while performing a synchronized dance. Originating from the region of the Kaqchiqueles and Tz'utujilees indigenous peoples, this dance symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth, and represents the struggle of indigenous peoples against oppression. The execution requires skill and bravery, and is celebrated during important festivals, such as the Feast of the Holy Cross.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• The burning of the bull:
  
  The burning of the bull is a Guatemala festivity that occurs during the celebration of the patron saint festival of San Sebastián in January. It consists of lighting a cardboard bull filled with gunpowder and fireworks, which is dragged through the streets while it explodes in a series of fireworks. This tradition symbolizes the fight between good and evil, creating a vibrant and energetic spectacle that attracts numerous spectators.
  
  
  
  
  

• Preparation of cold cuts:
  
  
  The preparation of fiambre is a Guatemala culinary tradition that is prepared especially for All Saints' Day. This dish is a cold and varied salad that includes a mixture of cold meats, vegetables, pickles and sometimes seafood, dressed with a special sauce. Preparing cold cuts is a process that can take several days and is an occasion to bring the family together and celebrate cultural heritage.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Carnival shells:
  
  Carnival shells are a festive tradition in Guatemala that involves filling empty eggshells with confetti or confetti and then breaking them over the heads of participants. This practice, carried out during carnival, symbolizes joy and fun, marking the beginning of the season of festivities and celebrations. Plus, it encourages interaction and holiday spirit among friends and family.

Landscapes:

• The Shells:
  
  It is mostly formed by calcium carbonate, which protects the body of mollusks and can consist of a single piece or valve, as in snails, two, as in clams, or eight, as in chitons.
  
  
  
  
  
• Lachuá Lagoon:
  
  Its interior is shaped like an inverted cone and its exterior reveals a mirror of crystalline water with a reflecting pool and a maximum depth of 222 meters.
  
  
  

  
  
• Los Amates Waterfall:
  
  The Los Amates waterfall is located in the department of Santa Rosa. They have an imposing size in both height and length, exceeding 50 meters in height and more than 20 in length. It is a little-known paradise, however with unparalleled beauty.
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
• Lake Atitlán:

  
  The surface of the lake is 1,562 meters above sea level, with its deepest part approximately 325 meters, while the average depth is 220 meters.
  
  

  

  
  

  
  
• Sweet River:
  
  About 43 kilometers long, the Río Dulce is the gateway to the Caribbean Sea. The canyon at the mouth of the river above the bay offers unique scenic beauty due to its vegetation and because it is a refuge for various native and migratory birds.

  
  
  
  
  
  Thanks for reading, see you next time!