My overall experience on the study abroad trip was eye-opening. I enjoyed learning about all the symbolism of nature and colors in the structures around Guatemala. The one that stood out to me was the cathedral at Santiago Atitlan. The red, yellow, and white banners hanging on the top of the cathedral’s roof were one of the most stunning things I saw. The colors represented the four corners of the world coming altogether. The whole structure was so massive, yet an inviting feeling encouraged me to observe.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to study abroad and see these beautiful sacred places. These structures are something that one always sees and hears about; however, to stand in front of them and walk inside the cathedral is otherworldly. I feel a new appreciation for traveling, something I have never had the opportunity to do before this. I have a new understanding of how big the world is and how each region of the world views everything so differently, which I was not conscious of in the past. The excursion to Lake Atitlan was my favorite because of how the population practiced their religion. Moreover, I loved learning about how the people of Santiago Atitlan expressed their connection to the Earth through architecture and murals. I hope one day to go back to Guatemala and revisit these sites.
Img: https://www.flickr.com/photos/155629884@N04/52191594205/in/dateposted-public/
-Lizet Morales