San Martín Jilotepeque

Founded in 1542 and occupying a territory of 156 square miles, the municipality of San Martín Jilotepeque was of major economic and political importance during Guatemala’s precolonial history. It was home to the the Chajoma Kaqchikel kingdom whose capital city’s ruins can still be seen today at the archeological site of Jilotepeque Viejo. The municipality has a population of 73,469, 88.9% of whom identify as Mayan. Aside from its capital city it houses 12 villages and 113 hamlets. The territory is located in the Guatemalan altiplano with an average altitude of 5,760 feet above sea level and is generally mountainous, with 31 peaks found within its limits. Agriculture is one of the primary economic activities in the municipality, with corn, beans, and sugar cane being staple crops. San Martín also produces a variety of other goods such as traditional cotton fabrics, ceramics, woven baskets, rope, candles, leather, bricks, and ceramic shingles. ALDEA and ABPD partnered with the municipality of San Martín Jilotepeque from 2001-2011.