Guatemala's Cultural Wealth: Traditions, Customs and Celebrations
Guatemala's cultural richness is inexhaustible. In this article, we will discover the main traditions and customs of this Central American country, as well as the different ethnic groups that have enhanced its identity and unique character.
Guatemala is one of those countries still unknown to mainstream tourism, so many of its charms are still secrets for travelers who come to the country. The Mayan culture is still breathed in all its corners, although it is not the only one, because if something characterizes Guatemalan culture is the variety of existing ethnic groups -more than two dozen-, which are divided into four large blocks: the Mayan culture, the Ladino, the Xinka and the Garifuna.
In Guatemala there are four major cultures that derive from its numerous ethnic groups. The majority is Mayan, but the other three have also left an important legacy in the country and are still considered very relevant. The Guatemalan Mayan culture is the largest and best known both within and outside the country. The great Mayan ruins, such as those in Tikal National Park, are well known to travelers, as well as the fact that the Mayas were not only found in Guatemala, but also extended into Mexico, Belize and the regions of Honduras and El Salvador.
From the Mayan culture in Guatemala are still preserved part of the traditional clothing of some ethnic groups in which women wear a cut, a kind of skirt; and men, a patí, similar to pants, and always with bright colors and embroidery. The influence is also noticeable in the gastronomy, with the preponderance of corn, since the Mayas believed that man was created from this cereal. That is precisely why the ceremony that still takes place among many farmers and is part of Guatemalan culture has to do with corn. It is the Sac Ha ceremony, which is performed with a drink prepared with boiled corn mixed with water from the dew or from the depths of a cave. This drink is placed in the center of a wooden altar surrounded by four stones representing the four cardinal points.
The Xincas are also part of the Guatemalan culture and are located in the areas of Escuintla, Santa Rosa, Jutiapa and Jalapa. They are well distinguished when they wear their traditional clothing because white is the protagonist, both in their clothes and in their women's, and it is common for women to wear their hair braided. For the Xinca people, the cuisine is based on beans and tortillas, and they have several typical dishes such as chipilín broth, kamawa beans, or rice pixtón.
The Garifuna ethnic group is formed mostly by African descendants and also extends to Honduras, Belize and Nicaragua. Their language, dances and music were inscribed by Unesco as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. They recognize the songs and dances used by this ethnic group to transmit traditional knowledge, mainly using percussion instruments such as drums made of mahogany or wood from Central America. As for the typical gastronomy of this ethnic group, it is marked by ingredients such as yucca, plantain, coconut and different types of fish.
One of the Guatemalan traditions that comes from this ethnic group is that of the Indian Barbarian, in which a man disguises himself using a mask and soaked in burnt oil or achiote, threatening to stain people unless they give him money. The origin of this ethnic group is colonization and many of the traditions they have brought with them are similar to some present in Europe. Some, such as Holy Week, are celebrated practically the same but some have been adapted to Guatemalan culture in a very beautiful and peculiar way.
One of these traditions is celebrated on November 1, All Saints Day in Spain, which in Guatemala is celebrated as the festival of Santiago de Barriletes. According to this Guatemalan tradition, large barrels (kites) are built, measuring up to more than 15 meters in diameter and filled with colors and beautiful designs. When the signal arrives, they are let fly with the November wind to ward off evil spirits and try to keep these kites in the air and as high as possible, as they are considered messengers of peace. When night comes, some of these barrels are burned and the smoke is considered to be a guide for lost souls.
Historical context and evolution
- The Mayan culture has remained present in Guatemala throughout the centuries, with important ruins such as those in Tikal National Park.
- Guatemala's ethnic diversity has contributed to the country's cultural richness, with the presence of Ladino, Xinka and Garifuna cultures.
- Guatemalan traditions and customs have evolved over time, adapting to the current reality but maintaining their essence and cultural value.
Analytical Perspectives
Guatemalan culture is characterized by its ethnic diversity and the influence of the different cultures present in the country. The following are some analytical perspectives on Guatemala's cultural richness:
| Culture | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Mayan Culture | Presence of important archaeological ruins and preservation of traditions and traditional dress. |
| Ladino Culture | Fusion of indigenous and Spanish culture, with influences in gastronomy and festivities. |
| Xinka Culture | Preservation of traditions and traditional dress, with emphasis on the color white and cuisine based on beans and tortillas. |
| Garifuna Culture | International recognition for its music, dances and gastronomy, with African and Caribbean influences. |
Outlook for the future
Guatemala's cultural richness will continue to evolve and adapt to social and cultural changes. As tourism in the country develops, it is important to preserve and promote Guatemalan traditions and customs so that they remain an integral part of the national identity. In addition, it is expected that Guatemala's ethnic and cultural diversity will continue to be an attraction for travelers, thus contributing to the country's economic and cultural development.
