Name: San Jose Village

Ancestry: Mopan Mayan Indian

Location: Toledo District Belize, Central America

Far from the relative hustle and bustle of Punta Gorda, San Jose is set in a particularly beautiful range of verdant hills near the Guatemalan border. This village was formed by people coming from San Antonio and the surrounding jungle area. A public meeting was held in 1954 and the village was named San Jose after the feast of Saint Joseph, held on March 19th, which is celebrated for 3 days by eating Caldos (local chicken or pork stew) and dancing to the Marimba and harp. Many farmers practice organic farming methods in San Jose, and the jungle around it is said to be the most rich and diverse in the whole of Central America. Today, the village of about 800 is entirely Mopan.

Source: T.E.A. Eco Trail Booklet