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Chichicastenango
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The
village of Chichicastenango is a place where great emphasis is placed on
the fusion of Mayan Indian and Spanish cultures. |
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Ancient rituals and Christian rites are practiced side-by-side, giving a glimpse
of typical life in the Guatemalan countryside. It is best known as the
open market meeting center for the Indians and “Ladinos” of the
highlands. They meet on Thursday and Sunday to sell their wares and to
worship the Catholic saints and ancient gods at Santo Tomas and El
Calvario - churches that face each other on both ends of the market
plaza. The Shrine of Pascual Abaj, where mystical and ancient rites
dedicated to this stone idol are performed, is located on a nearby
hilltop. |
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