Chichicastenango Market
Chichicastenango
One of the largest indigenous markets in Central America, where Maya people burn incense on the steps of the Santo Tomás church and the textiles are a riot of colour.
Chichicastenango is a highland town of the K'iche' Maya. On Thursdays and Sundays the whole town's streets turn into a market, selling handwoven cloth, masks, pottery, fruit and vegetables. The Church of Santo Tomás was built around 1540, and on its steps worshippers burn copal resin and set out flowers and candles; the blend of Maya and Catholic ritual is distinctive (photography is prohibited inside the church). It is about 2.5 hours' drive from Antigua. Tour companies run day-trip shuttles on market days, which can be combined with a visit to the Iximché ruins. In the crowds, keep an eye on your belongings, and bargain at the stalls.
Opening hours
Market days approx. 07:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Iximché
- Acatenango Volcano
- Finca Filadelfia
- Ruinas de La Recolección
- Hobbitenango
- Mercado de Antigua
- San Antonio Aguas Calientes
- Cerro de la Cruz