In Guatemala, the torches are part of the activities that are carried out September 15. A few days after commemorating the independence of the country, this and other celebrations that exalt the national values are organized. According to historian Walter Gutiérrez, it is a civic-sports event.
Gutiérrez mentions that The first Central American torch for peace and freedom took place in 1964. Since then, the flame travels the five isthmus countries on dates close to the national celebrations.
As for its symbolism, fire represents purification and liberation, says the historian. Currently, the marathon retains The integrative spirit of the communities before the national celebration.
However, practice has generated controversy in recent years, because some people have incorporated acts away from patriotic fervor. Despite this, it continues to be part of the traditions of some communities in our country.
The torches in Guatemala and the world
Torch represents freedom. According to historian Fernando Urquizú, the fire symbolized energy and work when this element was discovered. Over time, he associated with freedom.
The historian Aníbal Chajón He explains that in ancient Greece allegories arose represented by human figures. At the end of the French revolution, freedom was symbolized with the image of a woman who held an object in her hand.
Both historians indicate that the Statue of Liberty is one of the monuments that illustrates this allegorysince it is the representation of a woman with a burning torch. According to the United Nations Educational, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO), this statue was a gift from France on the occasion of the centenary of American independence.
“Installed in 1886 at the entrance of the port of New York, its effigy since then welcomed millions of emigrants to populate the United States,” says UNESCO.
Allegory of torches in Guatemala
In the country, Torch has established itself as a symbol of freedom linked to the independence movement. Both Gutiérrez and the sociologist Ricardo Ortiz emphasize that the torch evokes the tour of the mail that announced independence.
“The beginning or the first race that was made through the riders, which were announcing the news (…). At that time, the news did not arrive as fast as they arrive today, then, the announcement had to be made. Then, it is done as a form of recall, ”says Ortiz.
Ortiz emphasizes that Torch congregates people from different creeds and social stratawho share a common feeling during the tour, even if they do not live together again.
In the case of colonies, villages and municipalities, he points out that he becomes an opportunity to reunite. These types of activities allow those who live in the same neighborhoods to share related feelings of hope towards the country.
Central American Torch for Peace and Freedom
Although various activities are carried out in the country, one of the key events is the Central American torch for peace and freedom. During the tour, the relief of a burning flame that travels from Guatemala to Costa Rica, passing through El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua.
According to departmental governorate information provided to Free pressthe arrival of the Central American anthocha is scheduled for next Tuesday September 2, 2025 at 3 pm. The activity will take place in the Obelisk, zone 13 capital. Meanwhile, the departure to Jalpatagua, Jutiapa is scheduled for Wednesday 3 at 8 am at the same point.
In these activities, leading teachers and students will participate in the General Directorate of Physical Education (DIGEF), who will undertake the tour of Jalpatagua, Jutiapa. Participants will arrive in this town Thursday, September 4date on which the official act of delivery of the torch will be carried out to representatives of El Salvador and its subsequent return to Guatemala.
Government authorities emphasize that an awareness campaign will be implemented to avoid the launch of water bags. Those who attend the activity are recommended to follow the instructions of the authorities so that it passes peacefully and without incident.