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Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó: A Canvas of Culture

Discover the vibrant colors and rich culture of Santa Catarina Palopó, a lakeside village transformed by art and community spirit.

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Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó is a community project that has transformed the town of Santa Catarina Palopó into a vibrant work of art. Once a struggling village, it is now known for its brightly painted houses adorned with traditional Mayan designs, revitalizing the local economy and culture.

A brief summary to Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Take a walk around the village to admire the colorful houses and discover unique patterns on each building.
  • Visit the Centro Cultural to learn about the Kaqchikel Maya culture and the history of Santa Catarina Palopó.
  • Explore the local shops for handmade textiles and crafts featuring traditional designs.
  • Hike to the Mirador Santa Catarina for panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes.
  • Consider visiting the natural hot springs (Aguas Termales) for a relaxing experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Santa Catarina Palopó, most attractions are easily accessible on foot. The village is relatively small, and walking allows you to fully appreciate the colorful buildings and interact with locals. A short walk along the main street will lead you to the Centro Cultural and various artisan shops. Be prepared for some uphill walking due to the village's location on a hillside.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from Panajachel, you can take a 'colectivo' (public pickup truck) to Santa Catarina Palopó. These depart from La Despensa in Panajachel and cost approximately Q5 per person. Alternatively, tuk-tuks are available for around Q25 from Panajachel. From other lakeside towns, take a 'lancha' (public boat) to Panajachel first (approx. Q25), then transfer to a colectivo or tuk-tuk.

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Discover more about Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán, Santa Catarina Palopó is a testament to the power of art and community. The Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó project, initiated in 2016, has transformed this once-sleepy village into a vibrant canvas of color and culture. What began as an effort to combat poverty and attract tourism has blossomed into a symbol of community pride and empowerment. Driven by the vision of Harris Whitbeck and executed with the artistic direction of Diego Olivero, the project involved painting over 850 buildings with traditional Mayan symbols and geometric patterns. Residents actively participated, choosing designs inspired by the huipiles (traditional blouses) worn by local women, ensuring that each home reflects the unique identity of its family. The project uses environmentally friendly paint, specifically developed for the project. Today, Santa Catarina Palopó is a living art installation, drawing visitors from around the globe. The colorful facades have not only revitalized the town's economy but also fostered a renewed sense of belonging and cultural pride among its residents. Visitors can explore the village, learn about the Kaqchikel Maya culture at the Centro Cultural, and witness the artistry of local weavers. The Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó project serves as an inspiring example of how art can be a catalyst for positive change, transforming not just buildings but entire communities.

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