The Republic of Guatemala is a small country in Central America. It borders Mexico, Belize, El Salvador and Honduras. Evidence suggests that Guatemala has been inhibited for more than 10,000 years and Mayan remains are scattered throughout the country. The region was colonised by the Spanish in the beginning of the 16th Century. Guatemala gained independence from Spain in 1821, but was part of the Mexican Empire until 1840, when it became an independent country. During the 20th Century Guatemala suffered a series of dictatorships and guerrilla wars. However, since 1996 Guatemala has been a peaceful and stable democracy.

Inhabitants: 13,000,000
Area: 109,000 km2
Capital: Guatemala City (2,000,000 inhabitants)
Languages: Spanish
Religion: Roman Catholic (53%), Protestant (29%), atheists (16%), indigenous Mayan beliefs (1%), others (1%)
GDP (PPP) per capita: $4,100
Government: Parliamentary republic
Climate: Hot and humid tropical lowlands and colder and drier highland peaks.