A tourist can talk endlessly about the adventures and impressions received during a trip to the countries of Central America. Naturally, everything here is different from what he saw and heard in his homeland - stunningly beautiful landscapes, breathtaking panoramic views, the heritage of ancient cultures and civilizations, echoes of the Mayan skill in modern souvenirs. This article is aimed at those tourists who would like to know what to bring from Guatemala, a country of mountains and volcanoes, vibrant traditions, rituals and amazing music.
What souvenirs to bring from Guatemala?
It is difficult to say what kind of souvenirs reflect the national character of local residents, the mentality of the people. It cannot be said that Guatemala was at the crossroads of cultures; on the other hand, ancient Indian tribes, including highly developed ones, for example, the Mayans, left their mark on its history. Then, in the Middle Ages, colonizers from Europe came to these lands, who contributed to the emergence of new crafts and arts. All this could not but find reflection in industry and agriculture, social and cultural life of society.
The most popular are souvenirs that use Native American motifs, rock paintings by Mayan artists, their symbols, ritual objects and works of art. You can buy gifts with an Indian character throughout the country, in any corner of Guatemala, in markets and shops, in souvenir shops and just on the street, from local artisans.
Crafts made of jade, a stone considered sacred by ancient tribes, look amazing. It is distinguished by an extraordinary shade of milky green, shimmering in the rays of the sun. Local craftsmen have learned to make stylized figurines of animals, representatives of the local fauna and fantastic mythical creatures. Also, figurines, amulets, candlesticks, and attributes associated with ancient rituals are made from this noble material in Guatemala.
In the folk spirit
Guatemalans have learned to use the gifts of nature, therefore, goods made of clay, wood, stone are sold everywhere. The following pottery is popular among visitors: ceramic mugs with lids; plates, dishes, bowls; candlesticks, stands, lamps.
But the first place is held by "magic" mugs with lids. Their uniqueness lies in the fact that the master makes the painting individually for each future owner, which means that two identical mugs do not exist in nature. In addition, a booklet is attached to each such souvenir, in which the owner can write down his wishes (sellers guarantee 100% fulfillment). In the same booklet, you can write down the days that were not very pleasant, so that they never happen again.
Interestingly, in addition to ceramic cups, the manufacture of dishes from wood is widespread in Guatemala. And they enjoy the attention of tourists, especially those who are crazy about environmentally friendly products. For the manufacture of such souvenirs, valuable species of trees are used, the master preserves the texture of wood fibers, but applies his own patterns, drawings, stylized images of animals or the local god of corn.
Traveling through the Guatemalan mountain regions allows you to get to know the life of the locals, as well as buy things made by them. Traditional for the country items appear in the suitcases and backpacks of foreign travelers: sweaters, ponchos, alpaca wool hats; wicker bags, wallets, purses, complemented by Indian embroidery; dolls in traditional dress (where there is a mixture of ancient Indian style and European costume from the Middle Ages).
Carpets from Guatemala are also good, the art of carpet weaving is inherited in this country. There are small rugs on sale that are suitable for a hallway or bedroom, huge rugs worthy of a place in a hallway or a large living room. Since local markets are focused on foreign travelers, all goods can be absolutely safely taken out of the country without fear of meeting with Guatemala's customs officials.
In the capital, many souvenirs appear on the image of the Torre del Perfomador, a structure that has received the beautiful definition of the Eiffel Tower of Guatemala. It can be seen on magnets, badges, mugs, coasters, postcards. As you can see, Guatemalan travel for tourists takes place against the backdrop of amazing discoveries and vivid impressions. Numerous interesting souvenirs and gifts stored in the luggage are waiting for the meeting with the family and friends of the traveler, who is sure that he will be able to please and surprise the people close to him.
