Located just outside of Huehuetenango, the small town of Chiantla is actually just as old as its larger neighbor, dating back to colonial times. During the colonial era, Chiantla was a rich silver mining town, and although most of the silver made its way back to Spain, some of it survives in the magnificent cathedral. The famous Virgen del Rosario, a small statue of the Virgin all dressed in fine garments and silver, resides in Chiantla’s cathedral: every now and then the locals take her out for a procession through the streets.
There isn’t much to see and do in Chiantla. Head over to the cathedral to see the virgin, and take a look at the impressive Palacio Municipal across the street. The small market is worth a visit.  Chiantla has one interesting industry: local artisans make excellent leather products, like small backpacks, and they also make beautiful saddles. If you’re in the market for a saddle, just ask around and someone will direct you to the workshops. If you’re anywhere near during Semana Santa, head to Chiantla for the processions. Chiantla is a mostly ladino town, in the sense that there are no true ethnic indigenous that live there.