Guatemala Department, Administrative department with Guatemala City as capital, Guatemala.

This administrative division occupies the central part of the country and encompasses 17 municipalities with varying landscapes and populations. Guatemala City serves as both its capital and the nation's largest urban center.

The department was established in 1825 when Guatemala organized its administrative territories following independence. Since then it has remained the political and economic heart of the nation.

Spanish colonial customs and Maya traditions shape daily life through ceremonies, markets, and public celebrations that residents and visitors experience throughout the year. These practices remain visible in how people gather and communicate across different neighborhoods.

The area contains government offices, diplomatic missions, major educational institutions, and commercial hubs that make it the nation's administrative and business center. Weather can be cool at higher elevations, so layered clothing is useful year-round.

The area hosts the largest concentration of universities in Central America, with more than 20 institutions spread across its municipalities. This educational density sets it apart from neighboring regions as an intellectual hub.

• Location: Guatemala
• Capital city: Guatemala City
• Shares border with: Baja Verapaz Department, El Progreso Department, Jalapa Department, Santa Rosa Department, Escuintla Department, Sacatepéquez Department, Chimaltenango Department
• GPS coordinates: 14.64139,-90.51306
• Latest update: December 19, 2025 22:20