Pubs are starting to open up; celebrating with a pint of black

Antigua Guatemala

In the heart of Guatemala, cradled between three volcanos: Agua (Water), Fuego (Fire) and Acatenango, in a valley named Panchoy, lies a 17th century Spanish colonial city named Antigua. City building codes prohibit modifying building facades, modern, protruding signs, pavement, etc. Cobblestone and baroque architecture preserve the city much like it was 400 years ago.

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photo by Galyna_Andrushko

license for use purchased from elements.envato.com

It is here where I've decided to pull a bar stool and enjoy a pint of Cucurucho Stout. Notice the purple can, we'll get to that in just a moment. This is a beer made from dark, toasted malts which give it a hint of cocoa and coffee. Nitrogen is infused with a pressure tank to give the beer that characteristic head and a nice, creamy texture.

I have to tell you: it's a real treat!

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So what is a cucurucho?

Antigua has a strong catholic history. they celebrate easter with processions that commemorate the death and resurrection of Christ.

The procession floats are large and elaborate; they are made with exotic woods, fabrics and beautiful floral arrangements. Each float represent a scene of the passion of Christ. The floats are carried on the shoulders of devout pallbearers called cucuruchos. The processions run on a schedule according to the events they represent: first is The penitence, then the crucifixion and finally the burial of Jesus Christ.

The march of the processions is quite the sight. They run from one church to another swaying slowly and rhythmically from side to side to the pace of the lead cucurucho. The smoke and aroma of incense fill the streets while the funeral band plays its march.


The cucurucho outfit is a purple tunic with purple hat, white paletina on the shoulders and a white belt.

The float in the above video is not that large. Some of these floats can weight several tonnes and are carried by hundreds of people at a time.

Take a look at el Cristo Yacente del Calvario which is said to be the largest procession in the world. It's 25 meters long, weighs a whopping 2500 lbs and is carried by 140 people per city block. The pallbearers are rotated every block.

now THAT is some heavy lifting!

I think I'll do some heavy lifting of my own by enjoying my Cucurucho Stout.

cheers everybody and have a lovely weekend.

#BeerSaturday #beer

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