Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Photos of Salclaja and San Andres de Xexul

All photos are courtesy of Jillian Villars (http:guatermaler.blogspot.com), thanks Jillian!
 
Here in the town of Salclaja, just a short bus ride from Xela, is the oldest church in Central America, over 500 years.
 

Amparo sells "traje" out of her home near the church.  A dress can go for $26 U.S., that's almost three days of work for the average Guatemalan.  A reason why many indigenous are losing their customs.  Who can afford these things?
 
 How much is that "traje" in the window?
 
Salclaja is famous for their fermented fruit drink.  The one I'm tasting here was like a cheap port wine.  The bottle I brought home, however, wasn't as good, more like a cheap grenadine.  Yuk!
 
 
"It's good with desserts," says the woman.  Another Salclaja specialty.  Rum, raw eggs, milk, and cinamon.  Yum.
 
In the next town, San Andres de Xecul, is a folk art inspired church. 
 
Look at the details