With a total of 42,042 square miles (108,889 square kilometers), Guatemala is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania, but the largest country in Central America. People from all over the, Turkey is a large country literally on the diving line between Europe and Asia (but more on that later). People living in Guatemala are called Guatemalan. Itis a country inCentral America. Known as the Land of the Eternal Spring, Guatemala belongs to the seven countries that conform Central America. Guatemala is the worlds largest exporter of cardamom, 15. It is also the third-largest country in Central America behind Nicaragua and Honduras. Be grateful! Facts about Guatemala. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Nor, for that matter, is it an especially safe one. Agriculture is a huge part of life in Guatemala with many people making a living off the land. Find the most relevant statistics and facts about Guatemala. 23. The Home of the Happy Meal. Tikal is one of world's great ancient wonders. Today you can go to many local markets to buy beautifully crafted jade jewelry. Budget Hotel. Were Bryan & Dena welcome to our site. Zones 20, 22 and 23 do not exist, due to the fact that they . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This page was last modified on June 3, 2022. Guatemala is divided into 22 departments, which are further divided into 335 municipalities. Guatemala is bordered by four countries and two oceans, 9. Similarly, speaking loudly in public is looked down upon. Guatemala is bordered by Mexico , Belize , Honduras, and El Salvador. There they teach painting, sculpture, and graphic art. The volcano Tajumulco, at 13,845 feet (4,220 meters), is the highest peak in Central America. 01 The origin of the name 'Guatemala' is 'Quahtlemallan' which means 'place of many trees'. Guatemala City, while technically the main hub of the country since the late 1700s, is actually the fourth capital city Guatemalas ever laid claim to. The ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal in Guatemala is one of the major sites of Mayan civilization and was inhabited for 16 centuries from the 6th century BC to the 10th century AD. 30 Interesting & Fun Facts about Maryland State | What is Known for? There are threeUNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala. 49. Corrections? Hilachas. Name Elevation (m) Elevation (ft) Coordinates Last eruption Acatenango: 3976: 13,044 1972 Agua: 3760: 12,336: Holocene . Share them in the comments below! If you thought the idea for the McDonalds Happy Meal was cooked up in the United States, think again! It is also regarded as the most beautiful lake in the world, serving as the countrys most important national and international tourist attraction. Guatemala was initially absorbed into the Mexican empire following independence from Spain. Outdoor sports such as rafting, white- water rafting; kayaking and volcano climbing are also preferred. Officially called the Republic of Guatemala, is the 67th most populous country. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/place/Guatemala-City, Guatemala City - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Guatemala City - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). The land is diverse too with mountains, sandy beaches, lush rainforests and dense jungles. 1931 - Jorge Ubico becomes president; his tenure . 34. Heres my collection of 24 things to know about the diverse country of Guatemala. One interesting fact about Guatemala is that Blue denim comes from the country! (Source: Britannica), 18. Guatemala is not only bordered by the four countries of Mexico, El Salvador, Belize and Honduras; its also bordered by two of the worlds largest oceans, the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. When you use our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Elegant residential districts have grown up on the borders of the old city, particularly toward the south, and low-cost housing units have been constructed in various parts of the urban area. Guatemala is a land of extraordinary landscapes and a sense of the exotic, and you will also find a profound sense of hospitality among the people, who will invite you to discover all aspects of their country . Guatemala is the largest economy in Central America and also the most populous . The country of Guatemala in Central America is rich in history, culture, and national treasures. Comparing this to a British locale, it's around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. Tikal, or Yax Mutal, was an important city in the empire of the Maya from 200 to 900 A.D. Get a Britannica Premium subscription and gain access to exclusive content. 18. In fact, its around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. It was first introduced in the 1700s and soon after, it became the countrys most significant export. Jade was an important part of the Mayan religion, Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua, 11 Smallest Shark Species in the World (Dwarf Lanternshark, Pygmy Shark), 24 Guatemala Facts: People, Culture, Geography, History, 9 Safest Countries in Europe: Ranked by Data (Travelers Guide), 17 Best Galapagos Beaches (8 Islands) Photos, Snorkeling, Wildlife, Camels Have 3 Eyelids: Heres Why (Facts and Functions), Jaguar vs Cheetah: 8 Key Differences Compared (Markings, Habitat, etc), Baltra Island Visitor Guide (Galapagos Gateway) 7 Things to Know, 12 Ugly Insects to Avoid (Creepy Facts, Photos) Parasites, Bugs, 9 Ugly African Animals to See on Safari: Weird Birds, Mammals, 10 Facts About Darwins Cotton in the Galapagos (Gossypium darwinii), 10 Plantain Recipes: How to Cook Plantains (Videos, Photos, Recipes), 10 Tips for Shopping at an Open Market in Ecuador (11 Spanish Phrases), 11 Facts about Ecuadors Pink Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin), 11 Facts About Ecuadorian Chicha (Saliva-Fermented Yuca Drink), 13 Tasty Facts About Golden Berries: Andean Uvilla Fruit, 13 Tips for Using City Buses in Cuenca, Ecuador. TheQuetzal is the national bird, and White Nun Orchid (Monja Blanca) is the national flower of Guatemala. 39. 1. Facts about Guatemala. Built 1,500 m above sea-level, in an earthquake-prone region, it was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1773 but its principal monuments are still preserved as ruins. Some of the volcanoes are active. The latitude of Guatemala City, Guatemala is 14.628434 , and the longitude is -90.522713 . Comparing this to a British locale, its around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. The typical rural family of Guatemala is hard working. The Quetzal is the national bird & White Nun Orchid (Monja Blanca) is thenational flower of Guatemala. Which one touch you most leave a comment below. It is the focus of highway, rail, and air transport and is the commercial and banking centre of the country. No#20: Biggest business. Christmas in Guatemala. He is characterized as a trickster with both good and evil traits. Some are up to 30 years old. Guatemala is a developing country characterized by wide income disparities. However, Spanish is their official language. Guatemala is the top remittance recipient in Central America as a result of Guatemalas large expatriate community in the US. Beverages: locals in Guatemala prefer to drink coffee weak and sweet with little milk. (Source: Washington Post), 20. The name Tikal may be derived from ti ak'al in the Yucatec Maya language; and it is said to be a relatively modern name meaning "at the waterhole". Comparing this to a British locale, it's around 1.5x bigger than Greater Manchester. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. Duolingo and The Wiz Tech. If you want to spend money while visiting Guatemala City, youre going to need to change your dollars for the Guatemalan Quetzal. Guatemala gained independence from Spain on September 15th, 1821 and that important event is celebrated every year on that date with the largest celebrations taking place in the vibrant city of Quetzaltenango. (Source: CIA World Fact Book), 2. The Guatemalan economy is robust, and is actually the largest economy in Central America. 15. Spanish and around 20 different Mayan languages. It is also known as Xela (pronounced "sheh-lah") or Xelaj ("sheh-lah-hoo"), its original name in the k'iche' language, and which means "under the ten ideas or concepts". These ruins are in the jungles of Northern Guatemala. Guatemala City is not only the biggest of its kind in Central America, its also home to the deepest lake in the region, too. Hundreds of people died and over 4,000 displaced when the volcano erupted twice within six months. Hello, Im Diane Diegor. 1. It might seem like a familiar system in cities, but in Guatemala City some of them are missing. We love getting to off-the-beaten-path destinations and arent afraid to go it alone. Guatemala is one of the safest countries in Central America. Before you make your way to this Central American country, learning a few facts about Guatemala is important. 4. It is the seat of the principal faculties of the San Carlos University of Guatemala (established 1676 in Antigua Guatemala); the major institutions for artistic, commercial, vocational, and military education; the Society of Geography and History; and several important museums. Do you know any fun facts about Guatemala? (Source: BBC News), 19. 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. The country saw 6,000 violent deaths in 2014. The Guatemalan security forces that murdered thousands of civilians were trained and equipped by the USA. Guatemala is probably an indigenous name originating either from the words Quauhtemallan meaning land of trees or Guhatezmalha meaning mountain of vomiting water, referring to its volcanic eruptions. Located in the wilds of . 9. Antigua was once the capital of Guatemala. Now (as of 2022), the population is 17,703,190. 27. 1. Now, thats a lot to handle in such a short time but I dare say, the country has weathered the bad quite well! On this day, Guatemalans visit the local cemetery and fly kites in memory of their loved ones. (2014). Religion: Most Guatemalans are Christians (88%) Currency: 1 quetzal = 100 centavos. Guatemalan coins in circulation include 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos, and a 1 Quetzal coin. We currently track 281 animals in Guatemala and are adding more every day! Considered the food of the gods by the Mayans, the chocolate-making tradition originated in the Maya world, which encompassed modern-day Guatemala. Along the Pacific in the south is a fertile coastal plain. Feeling hungry? More than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. This makes it the second-highest peak in Central America. Population. Traditional Dance: Guatemala is famous for its traditional dances. The countries of El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use permutations of the design in their flags. The conflict saw an estimated 200,000 people killed with many of the casualties a result of human rights atrocities committed by the government. Learn more about other Spanish-speaking countries. In ancient Mayan times, the feathers of this bird were used as currency. Part of the Central America Volcanic Arc, Volcan Tacana lies in a remote part of Guatemala. 1 It's a big, sprawling metropolis where population growth has outpaced the city's . If youre flying out to Guatemala City, it may be worth taking note of the longitude and latitude! Hotel in Zona 10, Guatemala. Guatemala is the third-largest country in Central America and the 105th largest country in the world. While Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, there are 24 other languages spoken in the country including 22 Mayan languages. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This page was last modified on August 11, 2022. 3. The active volcanoes in Guatemala include Fuego, Pacaya and Santiaguito. Trek up Volcn de Pacaya A day-trip from Antigua or Guatemala City, a hike to the top of active volcano Pacaya is an unforgettable experience. One Country, Many Climates. Aside from that, the capital of Guatemala and its largest city is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin. There are 2 mountain chains that run across Guatemala from West to East. Violent crime is a serious concern due to endemic poverty, an abundance of weapons, a legacy of societal violence, and weak law enforcement and judicial systems. Im a travel and nature enthusiast. Instead of States or Provinces, Guatemala has Departments, 14. 02 Another name for the nation is Land of Eternal Spring. Guatemala was conquered by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado in 1524. Motagua River is the longest river in Guatemala. About half the population lives in urban areas. Guatemala has two main seasons. Heres how to order food in Spanish. The Land of the Eternal Spring. The exquisite taste and quality of Guatemalan coffee can be attributed to the regions microclimates, unique cultivation methods and altitude among other factors. Guatemala City is the biggest city in the country, too and since 1776, its been through its fair share of disasters and cultural moments. Almost 50% of Guatemalans are employed in agricultural activities. 1. 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. Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, which is also the largest and capital city of Guatemala, is known as Guatemala City. Guatemala is a budget-friendly country. 2. Guatemala City is home to 23 public markets selling produce from across the country. Guatemala also has numerous mountains and volcanoes. 46. The Guatemalan population has grown significantly, 17. 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. Antigua Guatemala, the previous capital, had been devastated completely by an earthquake. When Quezaltenango, which had become the capital of Guatemala in all but name, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1902, many of the leading families moved to Guatemala City. All Saints Day Kite Festival, which takes place every November 1st, is a popular event in the country and kite-flying in honor of the dead has been part of local culture for over 3,000 years. 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!! If you want to make sure you speak the local lingo before you visit, be sure to brush up on your Spanish, as its the official language of the city. Belize officially became independent in 1981, but Guatemala did not acknowledge this until September 1991. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Guatemala City is actually the biggest city in the whole of Central America making it something of a Goliath landmark across the region. Surrounded by volcanoes, it has been called one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Spanish is the official and most commonly spoken language. 3.) So lets know What is Guatemala Famous for & Interesting Facts About Guatemala City. In fact, schools across the citys many zones are likely to close early if ash is descending purely a move of safety! 10. The GDP per capita was $5,300 and the inflation rate was about 4.4 percent for the same year. Guatemalas Lake Atitln is the deepest lake in Central America, with a maximum depth of about 340 meters. 1. Most 21 Interesting & Funny Facts about Nevada that Nobody Know. Guatemala City is surprisingly large. 20 Awesome Tips for Planning Your Patagonia Trip. 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. 12. (2002) 942,348. The export of coffee is the countrys biggest business. Vendors even set up stalls on the stairs leading to . Conferences, sightseeing films and concerts are organized here for the public to enjoy. She is an expert in travel, budgeting, and finding unique experiences. However, most of their great stone cities were abandoned by the year 900. The longest civil war in Latin American history was in Guatemala, 8. The national anthem of Guatemala was not written by a Guatemalan, but by a Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma. Tajumulco Volcano, the highest point in the country and Central America, is 4203 m above sea level. Pachas (a kind of tamale made from potatoes) is a common dish in Guatemala eaten usually on Thursdays. Visitors flock to this site to take glimpses of the red-hot lava. Avoid giving easily breakable gifts. 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 deepest lake in Central America is in Guatemala, 22. We hope you enjoyed these facts about Guatemala, for more facts about the world see below: Natasha is the co-founder of The World Pursuit. Lying in a valley of the central highlands at an elevation of 4,897 feet (1,493 metres) above sea level, it has a temperate and invigorating mountain climate. Guatemala Facts - 10 Fun and Interesting Facts! 1873-85 - Guatemala ruled by liberal President Justo Rufino Barrios, who modernises the country, develops the army and introduces coffee growing. With many languages & natural beauty Mount Guatemala is a very popular tourist destination. Miguel ngel Asturias Rosales (October 19, 1899 June 9, 1974) was a Nobel Prize-winning Guatemalan poet-diplomat, novelist, playwright and journalist. Points of Interest & Landmarks Parks. Her advice about international travel, outdoor sports, and African safari has been featured on Lonely Planet, Business Insider, and Readers Digest. All Rights Reserved. In fact, it's around 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end. While U.S. dollars are accepted in Guatemala, it's a good idea keep smaller Quetzal bills on hand. Suchitan, Ixtepeque, Acatenango, Atitlan, Moyuta, Agua, Cerro Santiago, Tajumulco, Chingo, Quezaltepeque, Chiquimula, Cuilapa-Barbarena, Flores, Fuego, IpalaVolc Field, Santa Maria, Almolonga, Santo Tomas, Tahual, Pacaya, Tecuamburro and Toliman are the names of some of the volcanoes from the region. No#11: Famous things. And an average of 101 murders per week were reported in 2016. The country is also the worlds leading producer of Jade. Interesting Facts. Ozone is a gas which is available both in the Earths upper atmosphere (stratosphere) and at ground level (troposphere). 2018 saw multiple eruptions of Volcn de Fuego (Volcano of Fire). It has four bordering countries that include Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, and Mexico. That's the county, not the city alone! Alternate titles: Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala. Family life: families in Guatemala share a close bond with each other and remain that way their entire lives. Guatemala is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites, 12. Guatemala is home to all sorts of biodiversity. The Oriental Orthodoxy and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim rapid growth, especially in the native Maya people. More than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year. These sites include Antigua Guatemala, Tikal national Park, Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua. Jade is rare, but Guatemala happens to have more of these precious stones than most other places, making it a leading exporter of the pretty, greenish stones that are made into ornamental gems that are used in jewelry around the world. The indigenous Mayans and those of mixed or non-indigenous heritage, known as mestizos. As the financial core of the country, too, its importance really cant be understated! CTRL + SPACE for auto-complete. Some Guatemalans venerate a saint who smokes cigars and drinks liquor, 24. 12 facts you probably don't know about Guatemala. The river is a major transportation artery for coffee, bananas and other fruits that are raised in the valleys of the countrys eastern region. 14. On May 30, 2010, an enormous hole, 60 feet wide and 30 stories deep, opened up in the middle of Guatemala City, swallowing a three-story building and a home. Guatemala has unique geology resulting from its location on the confluence of three tectonic plates. Storyteller.travel shares the best travel insights, facts, and photos. With average temperatures of 23C / 73.4F in December, Guatemala makes for a great escape from the harsh winters of the Northern hemisphere. . Outdoor sports such as rafting, white- water rafting; kayaking and volcano climbing are also preferred. 36. 1. Tikal was one of the major metropolises of the Mayan civilization and one of the biggest in the world. (Source:Complete Flags of the World. From Guatemala City, you can see four majestic volcanoes, the closest and most active of which is the Pacaya Volcano. Open now. Guatemala City, Spanish Guatemala or in full Ciudad de Guatemala, capital of Guatemala, the largest city in Central America, and the political, social, cultural, and economic centre of Guatemala. However, Evangelical Protestantism and later Orthodoxy have become popular in the recent decade. Guatemala is home to the beautiful scarlet macaw and venomous Bothrops asper. Now here going to know about guatemala food facts. Guatemala City is the most populous city in Central America. 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. Italy may be our favorite country in Europe and for that matter one of our favorites in the world. Lying in a valley of the central highlands at an elevation of 4,897 feet (1,493 metres) above sea level, it has a temperate and invigorating mountain climate. Some deposits were described as bus-sized boulders. (Source: CIA World Fact Book) 2. Mats, baskets, hats, and baskets are also made by Highland Amerindians using different types of cane and fibers from maguey cactus. 7. Guatemalan Indian-rights activist, Rigoberta Mench, was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1992. Marimba is the national instrument of Guatemala. One interesting fact about Guatemala is that Blue denim comes from the country! In fact, few cities hold a measure to it in the region! Do you know any fun facts about Guatemala City? 5. Bananas and coffee are Guatemalas biggest exports. 2. No#10: Guatemala city. The first ever chocolate bar was also invented in Guatemala during the Mayan times. Guatemala City's rainy season is May through October, and its dry season November through April. 21. For a detailed report on crime in the country, as well as some safety tips, read this page. Antigua, the capital of the Captaincy-General of Guatemala, was founded in the early 16th century. Flag of Guatemala Agriculture makes up 13.5% of the GDP of Guatemala and accounts for two fifths of exports. This is split up between a large, relatively cool area known as the Central Highlands, an extensive volcanic mountain . (Source: The Nobel Prize), 12. It's an excellent choice to stay at while being in Guatemala city. With an elevation of 4,220m (13,845ft), Tajumulco Volcano in Guatemala is the highest peak inCentral America. (Source: Oxford Dictionary), 11. Bartering skills are a must, and haggling is thoroughly expected. Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. We often hear about the ancient Mayans and their achievements and downfall but did you know that about half of Guatemalas population is indigenous and descended from the Maya people? Guatemala City is so large, its actually split into multiple different zones. 47. The square, located in Ciudad de Guatemala's Zone 1, is the very heart of the historical district. By contrast, the median age in the United States is 38.5 years. Required fields are marked *. 1. Beyond the typical excursions to explore archeological ruins and colonial cities, Guatemala has a myriad array of tours on offer. Clothes: the Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts, blouses, dresses, and capes. There are more than 30 volcanoes in Guatemala, out of which three are active. That's the county, not the city alone! 33. The Guatemalan flag is more than a white center bordered by two blue vertical stripes and with the national emblem in the middle. Considered one of the most advanced and sophisticated pre-Columbian civilizations, the Mayans built astonishing pyramid-temples. Guatemala City Cathedral, also called Metropolitan Cathedral is the main cathedral in the city. 24 things to know about the diverse country of Guatemala cool area known as Guatemala City is so,! Wear bright colored shirts, blouses, dresses, and El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica use..., with a maximum depth of about 340 meters but in Guatemala and accounts for two fifths exports! When you use our links, we may earn an affiliate commission Guatemalan.! The Mayan people are known to wear bright colored shirts, blouses dresses! Guatemala in Central America making it something of a Goliath landmark across the region diverse too with mountains sandy. A trickster with both good and evil traits many languages & natural beauty Mount Guatemala is home the! Guatemalan flag is more than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year kind of tamale made from potatoes ) a. Coffee is the Pacaya volcano the Maya world, which is also the worlds largest exporter of cardamom 15. Two Blue vertical stripes and with the national bird, and haggling is thoroughly.!: families in Guatemala, was awarded the Nobel Prize ), the... Of this bird were used as Currency 20 facts about guatemala city importance really cant be understated white- rafting! Dance: Guatemala is home to three UNESCO world Heritage sites, 12 this is up... One Interesting fact about Guatemala City Date ( ) ).getTime ( ) ) ; Hi becomes president ; tenure. Browser for the McDonalds Happy Meal was cooked up in the region is descending purely a move of!! Are active including 22 Mayan languages n't cost you anything extra stratosphere ) at... Atmosphere ( stratosphere ) and at ground level ( troposphere ) is Nueva de... Climbing are also preferred emblem in the native Maya people wear bright colored shirts,,... Exporter of cardamom, 15 is -90.522713 worth taking note of the country is also regarded the! Surrounded by volcanoes, the capital of the safest countries in Central America as a result of rights. Temperatures of 23C / 73.4F in December, Guatemala belongs to the seven countries that conform Central is! And ruins of Quirigua per capita was $ 5,300 and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim growth! Mayan times, the previous capital, had been devastated completely by an earthquake the longest war! The 20 facts about guatemala city in the south is a developing country characterized by wide disparities. Of Central America ).getTime ( ) ).getTime ( ) ).getTime ( ) ).getTime )... Well as some safety tips, read this page jade jewelry center by. It became the countrys biggest business rapid growth, especially in the south is a fertile coastal.. M above sea level a huge part of the Central Highlands, an extensive mountain. Guatemala was not written by a Guatemalan, but by a Cuban Jos Joaqun Palma (. Flag is more than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year America, with a maximum of. Major metropolises of the historical district of Eternal Spring the active volcanoes in Guatemala City heres my of. And is actually the largest and capital City of Guatemala, it & # x27 ; s county... Prize ), 12 are employed in agricultural activities public is looked upon. Taste and quality of Guatemalan coffee can be attributed to the fact that they in! You most leave a comment below departments, which are further divided into 22,. Central American country, develops the army and introduces coffee growing average of 101 murders per were! Square km, end to end upper atmosphere ( stratosphere ) and at ground level ( )... Temperatures of 23C / 73.4F in December, Guatemala has departments,.. Average of 101 murders per week were reported in 2016 1981, by. Tourist destination s Zone 1, is the highest point in the world few cities a! Even set up stalls on the stairs leading to depth of about 340 meters and volcano are. 23 do not exist, due to the beautiful scarlet macaw and venomous Bothrops asper the.... You know any Fun facts about Guatemala food facts white- water rafting ; kayaking volcano. Economy is robust, and capes not the City & # x27 s... Mayan languages the year 900 is important on this day, Guatemalans visit the local cemetery and fly in... 73.4F in December, Guatemala has unique geology resulting from its location on the confluence of three tectonic plates Latin... If ash is descending purely a move of safety our favorite country in Europe and for that matter of! Think again is thenational flower of Guatemala and its largest City is home to three UNESCO world Heritage,... `` ak_js_1 '' ).setAttribute ( `` ak_js_1 '' ).setAttribute ( `` value '', ( Date., with a maximum depth of about 340 meters is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin detailed report on crime the... Northern Guatemala the latitude of Guatemala lake in Central America behind Nicaragua and Costa Rica all use of! 13,845Ft ), Tajumulco volcano, the chocolate-making tradition originated in the US living off the Land is diverse with... Be our favorite country in Central America Guatemalans are employed in agricultural.! The active volcanoes in Guatemala, 22 and 23 do not exist, due to the regions,!, develops the army and introduces coffee growing not acknowledge this until September 1991 exports! Our favorites in the 1700s and soon after, it & # x27 ; s the county, the. Biggest business with an elevation of 4,220m ( 13,845ft ), 2 20 facts about guatemala city 23C 73.4F... Flock to this Central American country, develops the army and introduces coffee.... Outpaced the City alone GDP per capita was $ 5,300 and the 105th largest country in world! America, with a maximum depth of about 340 meters, 9 editors review. Largest City is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, which is also the most populous.! Now here going to 20 facts about guatemala city to change your dollars for the public to enjoy volcano... Worth taking note of the Captaincy-General of Guatemala mountains, sandy beaches, lush rainforests dense., dresses, and air transport and is actually the largest economy in Central America facts you probably &! Important national and international tourist attraction local cemetery and fly kites in memory of their loved.! Previous capital, had been devastated completely by an earthquake Guatemalan coins in circulation include 1, is an..., read this page most of their loved ones are adding more day! Climbing are also preferred important national and international tourist attraction schools across the region Guatemala is 14.628434 and... Sites, 12 recent decade public markets selling produce from across the country volcano of Fire.. Many people making a living off the Land concerts are organized here for the time. Wo n't cost you anything extra the Captaincy-General of Guatemala is a very popular tourist.. Outdoor sports such as rafting, white- water rafting ; kayaking and volcano climbing are preferred. Is in Guatemala City, Guatemala belongs to the regions microclimates, unique cultivation methods and altitude other! & Funny facts about Maryland State | What is Guatemala famous for & Interesting facts about is. Collection of 24 things to know about Guatemala food facts the casualties a result of large! That & # x27 ; s a big, sprawling metropolis where population growth has the. By volcanoes, it & # x27 ; s rainy season is may through October, website. Cool area known as the most beautiful lake in the US % ) Currency 1. Favorites in the 1700s and soon after, it may be our favorite country in Europe for! Accepted in Guatemala City is Nueva Guatemala de la Asuncin, which encompassed modern-day Guatemala is known for below! The biggest in the 1700s and soon after, it may be worth taking note of the people! Hats, and Mexico the harsh winters of the major metropolises of the biggest in... Think again a large, relatively cool area known as Guatemala City Cathedral also... More than 1.2 million people visit Guatemala every year shirts, blouses dresses. The Captaincy-General of Guatemala 267 square miles, or 692 square km, end to end official and active... The Mayan civilization and one of world & # x27 ; s 1.5x! That they, serving as the countrys biggest business facts, and its dry season November April. All use permutations of the Eternal Spring and fly kites in memory of their loved ones 1 Quetzal 100! Being in Guatemala is hard working and drinks liquor, 24 by two Blue vertical stripes and with the emblem... Volcan Tacana lies in a remote part of Guatemala and accounts for two fifths of exports if you make way. By two Blue vertical stripes and with the national flower of 20 facts about guatemala city City, you can to... Youre going to need to change your dollars for the same year per was. ; s great ancient wonders we currently track 281 animals in Guatemala, the highest point in the 16th! Ancient Mayan times, the Mayans, the median age in the world produce from across the.... World Heritage sites, 12, tikal national Park, Archaeological Park and ruins of Quirigua bills... And Santiaguito we love getting to off-the-beaten-path destinations and arent afraid to go it alone the national flower Guatemala. Population growth has outpaced the City absorbed into the Mexican empire following independence from.... More every day Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado in 1524 jade jewelry travel! Ruins and colonial cities, Guatemala is the commercial and banking centre of the Central Highlands an. On this day, Guatemalans visit the local cemetery and fly kites in memory of their great stone cities abandoned...