Guatemala's mischievous saint
Maximon is a pagan saint venerated mostly by Mayan Indian communities in the highlands of Western Guatemala whose taste in alcohol and cigarettes portrays him as a very human character, different from the ideals of Christian sainthood.
Maximon likes dancing, boozing, smoking, candles and money. Folk legend has it he liked to sleep with the wives while their husbands were at work in the fields.
Unlike other traditional benevolent saints in Latin America, Maximon, who at times looks more like a bandit than a saint, can grant both good and evil requests.
Every year thousands of faithful make the pilgrimage to thank and pay their respects to Maximon, the mischievous saint whose roots are a confusing blend of pre-Hispanic beliefs and Christian rituals.
Worshippers offer money, spirits and cigars or cigarettes in exchange for good health, good crops and marriage counseling, amongst other favors.
Maximon dresses elegantly and is always be seen wearing a smart hat, holding his cane and sporting a moustache.
