Santa María Volcano, part of the Sierra Madre volcanic chain stretching across Guatemala, has a rich history filled with fascinating events and cultural significance. The massive eruption in 1902, one of the largest of the 20th century, left a lasting impact on the landscape and the people living nearby. The explosion created a large crater on the volcano's southwest side, which is now occupied by a parasitic cone called Santiaguito. This eruption also affected global climate, lowering temperatures by around 0.4°C for several years.

Local indigenous people believed that the devastating 1902 eruption was a punishment from the gods for the mistreatment of their sacred lands. Today, Santa María is a popular destination for climbers and hikers, who are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including neighboring volcanoes. The city of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala's second-largest city, lies in the shadow of the volcano and was severely affected by the eruption over a century ago.

Santiaguito, the parasitic cone formed in the aftermath of the 1902 eruption, has been continuously erupting since 1922, making it one of the longest ongoing eruptions in the world. Santa María's geological history, formed by the subduction of the Cocos Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate, continues to intrigue and captivate scientists and visitors alike. This remarkable volcano, with its blend of history, geology, and cultural importance, remains an enduring symbol of nature's power and beauty.

by Samanta, 2023