One of the characteristics that captivates visitors most about La Antigua Guatemala is the prevalent Maya culture that thrives amidst the wealthy Spanish class and the abundant tourism. Though outside influences are constantly bombarding LAG, the cultural gems of the indigenous people of Sacatepéquez live on. This is a large part of what makes La Antigua so special – this personal witness of true Maya culture.
There are 23 recognized languages in Guatemala and 22 of them are Amerindian languages, or Mayan languages. While Spanish is the official language (spoken by 60% of the population), it is often the second language among the indigenous population.
The Mayan language spoken in La Antigua Guatemala is Kaqchikel (or Cakchiquel). It is estimated that about half a million people (or about 8.4% of Guatemala’s population) speak dialects of Kaqchikel and the Mesoamerican language is closely related to the K’iche’ (Quiché) and Tz’utujil languages.
The traditional dress onlookers can spot the Maya women wearing in La Antigua is basically comprised of a wipil (blouse), corte (skirt) and tokoyal (hair piece). The wipil from La Antigua is usually white with patterns and colors stitched upon the shoulder and neck, which reflect the local Maya tribe. The corte is a piece of elaborately woven, seamless fabric. Maya women wear the fabric wrapped around their waist and it is held in place by a faja (an embroidered belt.). Mayan women wear cortes while doing all of their daily activities, from cooking and cleaning to carrying children and hiking mountains.
