Chiantla

This highland town in Guatemala's Huehuetenango department sits well above sea level in mountain terrain and holds more historic churches than its size would suggest, a legacy of its colonial past as the seat of a Mercedarian convent and doctrine — "Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Chiantla" — until 1754. Two traditions draw visitors annually: a Passion and Death of Jesus dramatization during Holy Week, and pilgrimages to the Silver Virgin of Chiantla. The town's festival falls on January 28.

• Population8,465
• Nearest water1.4 km
• Nearest mountain1.7 km