Ruk’ux Scholarship: Sightseeing in Santiago Atitlán
Tourist Places in Santiago Atitlan.
A tourist location is one that attracts attention of the locals, nationals as well as foreign tourists for the beauty and value it has while also educating the public about its historical significance. During the visits to these places great adventures and unforgettable experiences are acquired.
The main foundations and attractions of the tourist destinations are varied, because each one has its distinct principles and origin. In Santiago Atitlán different tourist attractions are offered and each one has a historical meaning. Likewise, in some locations you can appreciate the essence of the site because of its rich natural beauty..
Among the tourist attractions in Santiago Atitlán that have a history of origin are the Peace Park, Mirador Rey Tepepul, La Casa del Gran Abuelo (Maximón), Central Park and the Catholic Church, among others.
The Peace Park has its origin after the internal armed conflict, where thirteen martyrs of the Atitlaneco people lost their lives. This managed to achieve peace for the people who had been in the hands of the armies. This is the reason that this place is appreciated and now has a preserved space for tourists on the site of this event that occurred in 1990.
Mirador Rey Tepepul’s origin was the attraction of its beautiful lake and volcanoes from a very high altitude.
The house of the great grandfather (Maximón), has an ancient history. According to the grandparents they have been practicing their type of religion there for years. Also according to the grandparents, the image was created for the good or evil of the people who venerate it, through rites, cults and ceremonies. This image is carried in different homes and families accompanied with different cultural activities. This type of religion is practiced by the cofrades.
Central Park is known as a meeting point. It has a cozy space where people can take a short break or to meet with friends, family or acquaintances. In addition to this, the park has various monuments of Santiago Atitlan. They include the monument of Mayan clothing as well as a monument of Lake Atitlan surrounded with the tocoyal, which is a ribbon to adorn the hair of women. There is a stone image of the 25 Cent coin, which is one of the coins of Guatemala with the face of a woman from Santiago Atitlan.
Catholic Church: The Catholic church is one of the churches founded in pre-Hispanic times. All of the structures and monuments are unique. In addition to this you can appreciate the relics of Blessed Father Aplas (Francisco Stanley Rother), as well as multiple ancient images.
The main attractions to visit in Santiago Atitlan are: Lake Atitlan, San Pedro volcano, Atitlan volcano, Toliman volcano, images of the Saints created with wood, relics of the martyr Father Apla's, ancient structures of the Catholic Church, and the history of clothing worn by Atitlán men and women.
For all of this, I recommend to all nationals and foreigners to visit Santiago Atitlan, It is one of the most peaceful and cozy places imaginable. The inhabitants are very friendly and the typical meals are very delicious. I assure you that you will have unique and unforgettable adventures.
