Guatemala

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Guatemala is a country located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize and Honduras to the east, El Salvador to the southeast, and Nicaragua and Costa Rica to the south. It has a population of around 17 million people and a rich history and culture. Here are some key facts about Guatemala:

Capital: Guatemala City

Currency: Quetzal (GTQ)

Language: Official language is Spanish, but many people also speak Mayan languages and other indigenous languages

Government: Presidential republic

Economy: Mainly depends on agriculture, manufacturing, and services

History:

Inhabited by the Maya civilization for over 2,000 years
Conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century
Gained independence from Spain in 1821
Experienced a 36-year civil war from 1960 to 1996 that left the country in a state of turmoil

Geography:

Land area: 108,889 km² (42,000 sq mi)
Mountains: Sierra Madre mountains run through the western part of the country
Volcanoes: Over 30 active volcanoes, including Pacaya and Fuego
Major lakes: Lake Atitlán and Lake Izabal

Cuisine:

Traditional dishes include tamales, chiles rellenos, and enchiladas
Popular ingredients include corn, beans, and chicken
Fresh fruits like bananas, mangoes, and pineapples are abundant
Chicha (a fermented corn drink) is a popular beverage

Festivals:

Semana Santa (Holy Week): A week-long celebration before Easter with processions and festivities
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): A celebration honoring ancestors and loved ones who have passed away
Fiesta de la Independencia (Independence Day): Celebrates Guatemala’s independence from Spain on September 15

Tourist attractions:

Antigua: A colonial city with cobblestone streets and historic landmarks like the Cathedral of San José
Lake Atitlán: A picturesque lake with three surrounding villages and stunning scenery
Tikal National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Mayan ruins
Chichicastenango Market: A bustling marketplace with local crafts and textiles

Education:

Education is compulsory for children between ages 5 and 15
The University of San Carlos de Guatemala is one of the oldest universities in Central America

Sports:

Football (soccer) is popular in Guatemala, with a national team competing in international tournaments
Other popular sports include basketball, volleyball, and baseball

Fun facts:

Guatemala has a rich cultural heritage, with many indigenous communities preserving their traditional languages and customs
The country is home to many active volcanoes, including Pacaya, which has been erupting since 1965
Guatemala is a major producer of coffee, accounting for about 10% of global production