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Guatemala... At A Glance
Guatemala’s culture is a unique product of native Indian customs and a strong Spanish colonial heritage. About half of Guatemala’s population is mestizo (known in Guatemala as ladino), people of mixed European and indigenous ancestry. Ladino culture is dominant in urban areas and is heavily influenced by European and North American trends.
But unlike many Latin American countries, Guatemala still has a large indigenous population, the Maya, that has retained a distinct identity. Deeply rooted in the rural highlands of Guatemala, many indigenous people speak a Mayan language, follow traditional religious and village customs, and continue a rich tradition in textiles and other crafts. The two cultures have made Guatemala a complex society that is deeply divided between rich and poor.
One of the most intriguing cultural aspects is the infinite and exotic variety of traditional clothing handmade by Guatemala's Mayan population. The design of women's colorfully embroidered tunics, capes, and skirts dates back to pre-colonial days. Certain garment and design details will identify the maker's group and village, and can also have multiple religious or magical meanings. Music and traditional dance enliven many Mayan religious festivals.
Spanish is the official language of Guatemala and the primary language of 60% of the population. For the rest, the primary language is one of the more than 20 Mayan languages. Many Mayan speakers also know Spanish. English is widely understood among the upper class and business people.
Roman Catholicism is the principal religion. Evangelical and Pentecostal Christian denominations have gained wide followings, while the Maya have preserved aspects of their traditional religions, often blended with Catholicism.
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