San Mateo, Quetzaltenango facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
San Mateo
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Municipality
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| Country |  Guatemala |
| Department |  Quetzaltenango |
| Area | |
| • Municipality | 9.38 km2 (3.62 sq mi) |
| Population
(2018 census)
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| • Municipality | 7,895 |
| • Density | 841.7/km2 (2,180.0/sq mi) |
| • Urban | 7,719 |
San Mateo is a town and municipality located in the Quetzaltenango department of Guatemala. It is a small but important community in the western highlands of Guatemala. The town is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and its friendly people.
Contents
About San Mateo
San Mateo is a municipality, which is like a local government area. It includes the main town and the smaller villages around it. The total area of San Mateo is about 9.38 square kilometers. This makes it a relatively small municipality in terms of land size.
Where is San Mateo?
San Mateo is found in the western part of Guatemala. It is part of the Quetzaltenango Department. This department is known for its mountains and cool climate. San Mateo is located not far from the city of Quetzaltenango, which is one of Guatemala's largest cities.
How many people live there?
According to the 2018 census, about 7,895 people live in San Mateo. Most of these people, around 7,719, live in the main urban area of the town. The rest live in the surrounding rural areas. This makes San Mateo a close-knit community.
History of San Mateo
The area where San Mateo is located has a long history. Like many places in Guatemala, it was once home to Maya people. Later, during the time of the Spanish colonial period, new towns were established. San Mateo developed over many years into the community it is today.
Early Settlements
Before the Spanish arrived, indigenous groups lived in this region. They had their own traditions and ways of life. The land was important for farming and trade.
Becoming a Municipality
Over time, San Mateo grew. It became an official municipality, which means it gained its own local government. This allowed the people of San Mateo to manage their own affairs. This was an important step in the town's development.
Life in San Mateo
Life in San Mateo is often connected to the land and local traditions. Many people work in agriculture, growing crops. The community also has schools, churches, and local markets.
Local Economy
Farming is a key part of the economy in San Mateo. People grow crops like corn, beans, and potatoes. These foods are important for feeding families and for selling at local markets. Some people also have small businesses in the town.
Culture and Traditions
The people of San Mateo often celebrate traditional festivals. These events are a chance for the community to come together. They might include music, dancing, and special foods. These traditions help keep the local culture strong.
Daily Life
Children in San Mateo go to local schools. Families often spend time together. The town has a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by nature. It is a place where community ties are very important.
