In 1523, Guatemala was discovered by Cortes who was looking for precious metals to finance the Spanish war effort in Europe. Some silver was found but little else.

Over half the population of Guatemala today is pure Indian;
descendants from the great Maya Civilization.

Mayan Ruins :

Tikal, in the lowlands of northern Guatemala, is a major attraction as many Mayan ruins of the 3rd and 4th centuries have been excavated.

Guatemala City:
In 1776, Guatemala City became the country's third capital. This was after Antigua was almost destroyed by an earthquake.