Chichicastenango Market
Guatemala
Chichicastenango Market, located in the mountainous El Quiché department of Guatemala, is a renowned cultural and commercial center predominantly inhabited by the indigenous K'iche' Maya. The market operates mainly on Thursdays and Sundays, offering a rich variety of traditional handicrafts such as textiles, women's blouses, pottery, wooden boxes, and ceremonial masks used in dances like the Dance of the Conquest. Visitors can also find local produce, medicinal plants, candles, and traditional incense such as pom and copal. The market is uniquely intertwined with the adjacent 400-year-old Church of Santo Tomás, which stands atop a pre-Columbian temple platform. The church remains a sacred site where K'iche' Maya priests perform rituals including incense burning and offerings. Each of the 20 steps leading to the church represents a month in the Maya calendar, underscoring the deep spiritual significance of the site. Nearby, the Cofradia of Pascual Abaj stone is venerated with traditional ceremonies. Chichicastenango Market not only serves as a commercial venue but also as a vibrant expression of Maya culture and spirituality, making it a compelling destination for those interested in indigenous traditions and artisanal crafts.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit Chichicastenango Market on Thursday or Sunday mornings when the market is most active. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds and to see the full range of goods and traditional rituals. Purchasing handicrafts directly from local vendors supports the indigenous community. Visitors should consider buying tickets or arranging tours in advance during peak seasons to ensure access. Discounts may be available for groups or students. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the mountainous terrain and busy market atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •The Church of Santo Tomás is built atop a pre-Columbian Maya temple platform, with the original temple steps still venerated and used in Maya rituals.
- •Each of the 20 steps leading up to the Church of Santo Tomás represents one month of the Maya calendar year.
- •Masks used in the traditional Dance of the Conquest are crafted locally in Chichicastenango.
- •Chichicastenango was a filming location for the 1935 movie 'The New Adventures of Tarzan.'
- •The Cofradia of Pascual Abaj is an ancient carved stone near Chichicastenango revered in Maya religious practices.
History
Chichicastenango, originally known as Chaviar, was named by Spanish conquistadors after the Nahuatl term Tzitzicaztenanco, meaning 'City of Nettles.' The town has been a significant K'iche' Maya cultural center for centuries.
The Church of Santo Tomás, built approximately 400 years ago, was constructed over a pre-Hispanic Maya temple platform, symbolizing the fusion of indigenous and colonial histories.
Over the centuries, the town retained its indigenous identity despite Spanish influence, maintaining traditional languages and rituals.
The market has long been a focal point for trade and cultural exchange in the region.
Place Guide
Church of Santo Tomáscirca 1600s
A 400-year-old church built atop a pre-Columbian temple platform, serving as a spiritual center where K'iche' Maya priests perform rituals including incense burning and offerings. The church's 20 steps symbolize the months of the Maya calendar.
Chichicastenango Market
A vibrant open-air market held mainly on Thursdays and Sundays, selling textiles, pottery, wooden crafts, medicinal plants, traditional incense, and ceremonial masks. It is a hub of indigenous K'iche' culture and commerce.
Cofradia of Pascual Abaj
An ancient carved stone located near the town, sacred in Maya religion. Maya priests perform rituals here, and the stone bears inscriptions related to the king Tohil.
Contact
Phone: 4518 7726
