A Hidden Meaning

Statuettes of San Simón or Maximón found beside the temple in San Andrés Itzapa. Photo: Santiago Billy/Comvite

If you’ve gone around Guatemala, odds are that you’ve come across the effigy of a man clad in all black formal wear. Colorful garlands sometimes contrast his attire. Though his face often lacks any expression, there’s an ominous air about him. He tends to sport a wide brim hat and sits upon a simple wooden chair. Offerings in the form of alcohol, cigarettes and candles usually lay at his feet or on his lap. People know him best as Maximón.

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