Hispanic
"Visit Guatemala"
In The Hispanic Gallery
Spanish is the official language in 20 countries and the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. Visitors can see the flags of these countries and learn about the Guatemalan culture. Guatemala is the size of the U.S. state of Tennessee. 14 million people live in this country today and more than half are descendants of the early Mayan Indians living in Central American who liked Guatemala and settled there.
The Mayan Rule was topled by the Spanish invasion in 1523. Guatemala experienced Civil War for some 36 years and ended in 1996. These historical encounters are revisited with special holidays.There are many Mayan villages in the rural highlands. The urbanized areas house the relatively wealthy mestizos known as Ladinos.
The farm land in Guatemala isvery fertile to grow sugar cane, coffee and cocoa. Today 51% of the population lives on less than $2 a day. TheGuatemalan people speak spanish and lxil representing the Mayan beginnings.
The display cases in this Hispanic Gallery show case beautiful artifacts for this culture. Guatemalan dance masks and costumes are on display as well as primitive stoneware. Folkdance costumes have been worn at this gallery featured Las Posadas Celebrations and on other occasions.
Guatemalans are the most civil, polite people in Latin American. It is worth the trip to learn more about their culture with a museum visit. Visitors to this gallery can stop Sundays from 2-4 p.m. or weekly for a private tour and calling the museum.
Call (815) 962-7402 for more information
| Hand crafted pottery piece from Hidalgo, Mexico Donated by Felicia Carrillo |  |