Municipality of San Sebastian
San Sebastián is a municipality in the Department of Lempira in Honduras.
The name «Colozuca» means «Bird of Rich Plumage» and is derived from the roots «churri-chorro,» «chulu-cholo» (civilized Indian), «ave» (bird), and «zuca» (rich and beautiful feather), as well as the Mayan word «COLD» (cornfield) and «ZUCA» (rich and beautiful), signifying «Beautiful Place.»
In the population census of 1887, it was the hamlet of Colosuca in the municipality of Gracias. It was founded on March 7, 1896, as a municipality.
Geography
This main town is located high up in a mountain. It is surrounded by pine trees and some oaks. The mountains are truly tall and steep, which is evident when traveling along the road to reach the town. In some large mountains, the vegetation consists of shrubs.
The geological origin includes volcanic activity, and there is a considerable amount of alluvial material near the two rivers.
Boundaries
San Sebastián has the following boundaries: to the north with the municipality of San Manuel Colohete and the department of Ocotepeque; to the south with the municipalities of Tomalá and San Andrés. To the east with the municipalities of La Campa and San Manuel Colohete; to the west with the municipalities of Guarita, Cololaca, and San Marcos de Caiquín.
- Land area: 227 km²
Resources
Coffee farms are the main source of employment in the region, as it is the primary product. Cattle raising comes second, followed by grocery trade and other essential items. The cultivation of corn and beans is for local consumption, which is why it is mentioned last.
In 2007, efforts were made to install sanitary sewers. Potable water is obtained from drilled wells. Electricity has been available for the past 3 years. Mobile communication services are also provided.
There is an exit to the department of Ocotepeque, but the road is in very poor condition. The transportation service is quite limited, with only one bus available for the movement of people and goods.
Population
In San Sebastián, descendants of indigenous people make up 60% of the population. The remaining 40% consists of mestizos, including individuals with fair skin and even blue or green eyes.
- Population: In 2001, this municipality had a population of 8,025 inhabitants. The National Institute of Statistics (INE) has estimated a population of 9,324 inhabitants for 2008.
- Hamlets: 7
- Hamlets: 108
Tourism
Once you pass San Manuel de Colohete, there are sections where the road narrows, and the slopes become steeper and more dangerous. You have to cross a river, which may be impassable during the rainy season, but there are no problems with the next river as a bridge has been built.
It is recommended to visit these places strictly in 4-wheel-drive vehicles. It is located 45 km from the city of Gracias and 13 km from the municipality of San Manuel Colohete. You can see the mountain «Congolón» to the south and some mountains of Ocotepeque to the north.
Undoubtedly, the old church can be an attraction for those interested in ancient colonial buildings, especially because this main town is part of the Colosuca route organized by the Honduran Institute of Tourism and several municipalities in the area.
And if you seek the tranquility of rural areas, this place can be ideal.
- Fiesta patronal: January 20, the day of San Sebastián.
