MAXIMÓN

Its origins go back to Mayan mythology, in which there is a character called Rilaj Maam - meaning "El Gran Abuelo" - venerated by the Tz'utujil people for his quality of protective guardian. Illustration of the syncretism between the Mayan cosmovision and the Christian religion, Maximón is considered as a divinity who transforms himself according to the person who visits him. Nevertheless, for everyone, he takes the form of a wooden statue with human features, wearing two hats and a pile of scarves, while a small cigar is in his mouth.

In Santiago Atitlán, it is mainly believed to have healing properties, as well as the ability to make a person fall in love, protect someone from danger and bring success in business - among other things. To ensure that their prayers are answered, devotees bring offerings such as candles, money, alcohol, tobacco and food. Being made up of the duality of good and evil, Maximón arouses both adoration and fear.

The place where his statue is carefully worshipped changes every year: to see it, you will have to ask a local or one of the children who wait for tourists at the pier, for a few quetzals. Note that a procession is dedicated to it every year, during Semana Santa. Although Maximón seems to have originated in Santiago Atitlán, there are other representations of him, especially in San Andrés Itzapa and Chimaltenango.