Pascual Abaj - Historical Building Chichicastenango - Guatemala

A short walk south of the town center is the Maya ceremonial site of Pascual Abaj, a shrine which is still very much in use today. There are some small altars and a pre-Columbian idol, and if there has recently been a ritual you will no doubt see burned incense, empty liquor bottles, and flowers laying around. Chickens may also be sacrificed. Located so close to Chichi, Pascual Abaj attracts its share of tourists, but it is still important to be respectful of worshippers and to be careful when taking photographs.

Location:
Chichicastenango, Guatemala

Historical Building Types:
Spiritual/Religious

Getting There

To get to the shrine walk down 5a Avenida past the church, then turn right on 9a Calle and follow the path and the signs up through pine forest.

Travel Tips:

The tourist office can give you a map and point you in the right direction or organize a guide for you.

Relative price: Free

Travel Skills: beginner/easy.

About this Page

By Joanne Sykes

Born and raised in Yorkshire, England, Jo is currently working as a freelance travel writer in Latin America. With degrees in...

Updated: 26 Nov 2009