About 60 % of the population of Quetzaltenango is indigenous. One can expect to hear the Qui´che, or Mam languages spoken in the street as well as see the beautifully colorful traje típico (traditional clothing) of the indeginous population who are well integrated into the daily life, economy and social activities of Quetzaltenango.

The history of the Xela began with the Mam-Indígenas, who were its founders, naming the city Xela Ju (pronounced “Shela Who”). The city gained importance after it was conquered by the Quiché in the 14th century. In the 16th century spanish conquistadors renamed the city Quetzaltenango, but to this day is still called Xela.

Quetzaltenango has always been the second capital of Guatemala because of its situation as the crossroads to the highlands of Guatemala. The city grew in population and importance during the coffee trades of the late 19th century. German and Italian influence of this time is still visible.
In 1902 Santa María, a volcano just outside of Quetzaltenango, had a full scale eruptionm, causing much damage to the city. After this, it lost its importance in commerce, and much of its business moved to the capital.
Today, Quetzaltenango presents itself as a modern city, with a highly active cultural and creative community, having an infrastructure more or less similar to that of European or Nothern American cities. There are three universities, an (internet-) café around every corner, restaurants, shops of different types, art museums, fitness centers, dance clubs, and cinemas. For anyone interested in furthuring their Salsa skills, Xela, Guatemala is one of the best places in the world to visit. Maintaining the authentic Guatemalan culture one can find handicraft stores, markets, and street vendors and a highly animated population. Quetzaltenango represents a step into modernity for Guetamala with a powerful respect for the past and its traditions.