Pilgrim Networks of the Holy Shrine of Esquipulas, Guatemala

Abstract

The Shrine of the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Guatemala, attracts over one million pilgrims annually. This research reveals major pilgrim source areas and identifies key variables associated with pilgrim movement to the shrine. Four data sets were obtained by interviewing pilgrims at the shrine. In major pilgrim source areas, religious leaders and transportation agents were visited throughout Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. Over 60% of the pilgrims originate in Guatemala. An additional 20% travel from Honduras and 10% come from El Salvador. Smaller numbers journey from Mexico and the United States of America. Within Guatemala distance decay plays a role in accounting for variations in source areas especially when standardizing pilgrim numbers by total population. Other Black Christ shrines throughout Central America and Mexico have developed their own areas of influence and attract individuals who might otherwise travel to Esquipulas. As distance increases these secondary shrines gain in importance and compete with the original image. Central America's agricultural cycle affects pilgrim travel. Greater numbers of rural inhabitants visit Esquipulas during the dry season when farming activities are at low ebb. Relatively few U.S. citizens travel to Esquipulas since most tour companies which book visitors to Guatemala focus on the highland, Indian areas.