NEBAJ & IXIL COMMUNITIES
Santa María Nebaj (often shortened to just “Nebaj”) is perhaps the most well-known village of the Maya Ixil region or communities which include San Juan Cotzal, San Gaspar Chajul and of course, Santa Maria Nebaj.
These remote mountain villages were greatly affected during the Guatemalan Armed Conflict, but today, they retain much of the traditional ways of Maya life – from the adobe style construction still commonly found, to the Ixil Mayan language which is the mother tongue for most inhabitants, many of whom do not speak Spanish.
The rolling hills and breathtaking views have led this area to be likened, on occasion, to the Swiss Alps – perhaps this is why the Azzari brothers who immigrated to Guatemala from the Italian Alps in the 1930’s chose Acul (another nearby village) for their new home, bringing with them their knowledge on cheese making and the decision to start two family run farms, dedicated to making delicious Chancol cheese.
Things to do in and around the Ixil Communities:
- Go hiking in the mountains and learn more about the history of these villages and the struggles they faced during the uatemalan Armed Conflict, as well as appreciate the amazing views.
- Soak up the atmosphere of these traditional communities, from people watching in the local park, to trying the “boxbol” dish and hearing about the legend depicted on many of the women’s huipiles (blouses).
- Stay at one of the local farm houses and sample delicious Chancol cheese made on the property
