he Craft Market was inaugurated on May 28, 1974, by the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism (INGUAT). At its inception, it had 35 commercial spaces and 2 modules for a cafeteria and the display of crafts. It was created to fulfill two primary purposes. The first was to provide a place for artisans from rural areas to sell their products directly to tourists. The second was to serve as a venue where both national and international tourists could purchase and take home Guatemalan handicrafts, such as traditional huipiles and cortes (traditional garments), bags, backpacks, blankets, tablecloths, shawls, scarves, masks, stones, and carved wooden items, among others. This served as a convenient stop for tourists on their way to the airport. Currently, the market occupies an area of approximately 10,200 square meters, with 54 commercial spaces and three kiosks offering tastings of typical food, natural fruit ice cream, and a kiosk for sampling national coffee. It also provides essential services like public telephones, two ATMs, and credit card payment options. The market has a large parking area, with space for about 150 vehicles, security services, gardens, and, of course, a wide variety of products. This market serves as a source of livelihood for approximately 4,000 artisans from various departments across the country.