The religious figure of Maximon offers evidence of a curious syncretism between traditional Mayan beliefs and Catholicism, which arrived in Guatemala along with the colonizing Spanish in 1524.
Worship is thought to have begun around this time, and provided a way for the Mayans to hold onto some of their traditional ceremonies while appearing to adopt Spanish Catholicism. The combination of beliefs old and new is evident when you consider the images of Christian figures, such as the Virgin Mary which adorn shrines to Maximon.
Sometimes known as San Simon, followers worship figures of the deity, which are usually found in the form of a mustachioed man in a large hat. Maximon is often seen smoking a cigar or a cigarette that one of his followers has left him.
He is sometimes called the saint of gamblers and drunkards, perhaps due to the popular practice of leaving offerings such as alcohol and money in the hope of receiving a favor.
Santiago Atitlan may be the most famous village for Maximon worship, and residents take turns looking after his statue each year. Not far away, in San Andres Itzapa, followers decided to build a full-blown temple to the figure they consider to be a saint, capable of bestowing good fortune in love and business on his devoted followers.
Entering into a pact with Maximon is not something to be taken lightly, with the population of Santiago Atitlan firmly believing that ceasing to bring him offerings will see bad fortune arrive at your door.
Keep an eye out for statues of Maximon on your travels around Guatemala, and think twice before leaving a one-off offering. If worshippers in Santiago are to be believed, it’s a lifetime commitment.
Read This Next
Buddha Tourism at Po Lin Monastery
Trends / Unique Itineraries & Tours
Apr 30, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedTravel
Apr 30, 2025Platform Helps Remote Workers, Business Travelers Find Work-Friendly Hotels
If you’ve ever attempted to work on the go — not necessarily for a business trip, but just because your job offers the flexibility of remote working — you may have struggled with working from your hotel room. Your options are typically plugging your laptop in next to a tiny in-room table, if you’re lucky, or you’re stuck answering emails from your hotel bed — hardly conducive to productivity.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Hotel
Apr 30, 2025Discover the Best of the Adirondacks at Schroon Lake
Looking for the perfect summer kick-off trip? The Lodge at Schroon Lake, in the Adirondacks, offers the ultimate vacation for travelers of all ages. Expect outdoor activities, beautiful scenery and lakeside fun — all the necessary ingredients for an unforgettable summer trip. Here’s a closer look at what The Lodge at Schroon Lake has to offer this summer:
Destinations / North America
Apr 29, 2025Cheapest U.S. Fall Shoulder Season Destinations Revealed
Planning ahead for a fall shoulder season (mid-September–October) trip? If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll want to visit one of the cheapest U.S. fall shoulder season destinations.
Hotel
Apr 29, 2025Fairmont Royal York’s Spring Programming
Take in the Splendor of Spring, a curated selection of activities and events, at Fairmont Royal York.
Slideshow
Apr 29, 20257 Must-See Sites in Sapporo, Japan
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Sapporo, Japan.
ShareThis