Description
It is a beautiful Tzeltal town located over an elevation with a fertile valley covered with crops,
where the use of pre-Hispanic pottery techniques prevails; it has a population of about 6600
people and it is located 1810 meters above sea level. The name of Amatenango del Valle
means fortified place of fig trees in Nahuatl; due to the numerous wars, the towns used to
be fortified. As a consequence of this, the word Tenango, meaning wall place, changed
its meaning to town or place.
The Tzeltales group established in the town during the pre-Columbine times and in 1846
it was invaded by Aztec troops. After the conquest of Chiapas in 1528 it was supposed to be
part of Teopisca but at the end of the XVI Century it was named as we know it now.
Historical monuments
· San Francisco Temple ·
Its origin dates back to the XVII Century, its front structure outstands from among the others because
of its high and elegant stature. It is made in one piece with two water roofs.
Handcraft
The use of pre-Hispanic methods in the manufacture of pottery is important as fire is used surrounding the pieces instead of putting them in the oven. Also, the manufacturing of the traditional white dress called huipil with red and yellow embroidery.
Ethnic groups
Tzeltales
How to get there?
From San Cristobal take the federal road 190 that goes to Comitan, 37 km from there this beautiful place is found.
Services
San Cristobal de Las Casas is the nearest city where tourist services can be found.
Travel Hints
Due to the customs and traditions of the place it is not possible to take photographs in the church or of the saints when processions take place and if photographs of crafts want to be taken, permission is required.
Places nearby
Teopisca and Aguacatenango.
Festivities
CHIAPAS is tradition, folklore, dance and marimba music in its innumerable fairs and parties that are celebrated trough out the year in different cities in honor of their Saint.
Place
The San Francisco Religious Festivity is celebrated on October 4th, in which masses are given in honor to this saint.
Contact
To obtain more information it is advisable to visit the Tourism delegation in San Cristobal
de Las Casas:
Av. Miguel Hidalgo No. 1, Local "B"
Phones 01 (967) 678-6570, 678-1467
& 01 (800) 280-3500
