sudaranios

Sudarénios is a geographical and cultural region located in the south of the Jutiapa Department in Guatemala. It is situated along the southern border of the department, extending from the valley of the river Pasión to the foot of the mountains that separate it from the Honduran territory.

Topographically, Sudarénios is characterized by a diversity of landscapes that go from flat areas, like the valley of the Pasión river, to hills and mountains. The terrain is marked by rivers, like the Pasión and the Lípez rivers, that have played a significant role in the settlement of this region. The climate is tropical, with an average temperature of 28°C and relative humidity percentages around 70%.

Historically, the Sudarénios region was inhabited by indigenous groups, with the Mamatel and the Cobán being two of the most relevant ones. The Spanish conquest of the region took place in the 16th century and with it the introduction of new agricultural practices, livestock and domestic animals. However, the devastating impact of disease and the exploitation by colonizers resulted in the significant decrease of local indigenous populations.

Presently, the Sudarénios region has become one of the most agriculture-bound areas in the Jutiapa Department. Produce such as coffee, bananas, and maize are some of the most important crops grown in the region. As a direct consequence of this economic activity, the South is currently under pressure to industrialize and establish communication lines to promote growth. With this situation, residents of Sudarénios are hopeful about further development and, hopefully, not losing sight of the region's extraordinary natural resources and rich cultural heritage.