The Highlands, Guatemala
Huehuetenango is a city located along the slopes of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, the highest mountain chain of Central America. A large number of the population are of Mayan descent, mainly from the ethnic group of the Mam as well as the Chuje, Kanjobal and Jacalteca Indians who share the territory around Huehuetenango. This area is not only famous for its weaving but also the traditional, colourful dress of the local people.
Background
The Mam Maya people ruled most of the western highlands until Huehuetenango was founded by Gonzalo de Alvarado in 1524 after the Spanish conquest of Zaculeu, the capital of the Mam Maya people.
Today the region of Huehuetenango is politically divided into 31 municipal districts with each district differing in how the inhabitants dress. In Huehuetenango itself people are generally farmers cultivating corn, potatoes, wheat, barley, coffee and sugar cane; shepherds or artisans who manufacture textiles, guitars, fireworks, pottery and baskets.
The town of Todos Santos is a place well known for its weaving. The making of textiles can be observed as the local women weave on backstrap looms, on the porches of their houses.