Guatemala City is formally known as "La Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción;" its Hispanic name derived from the city's colonization by Spain in the mid-1600s. For the locals however, the city is fondly called "Guate." The largest city and the capital of the Republic of Guatemala, it has a population of around 2 million.
Dotted with ancient ruins, Guatemala City is home to the ancient city of Kaminaljuyu, dating back thousands of years to the Maya civilization. When the traveler would go walking through the city's twenty-five (25) zones, the cohesive feel of ancient and modern times instantly offers a stunning visual feast.
The most vibrant and modern city in the whole of Central America, the city is located atop three tectonic plates, sprawled on a valley with the Agua volcano an imposing presence in its horizon.
Guatemala vibrantly pulsates with art and culture, with its numerous museums and art galleries that showcase all art forms such as sculpture, engraving, painting, and photography. The favorite spot for shopaholic tourists is the Central Market, where one could enjoy not only the fervent Guatemalan spirit, but also the wide range of Guatemalan handicrafts, vegetables and fruits all ready for the picking.