Sarteneja
| Sarteneja | |
|---|---|
|
Beachfront of Sarteneja | |
  Sarteneja Location of Sarteneja in Corozal District, Belize | |
| Coordinates: 18°21′12″N 88°8′46″W / 18.35333°N 88.14611°W | |
| Country |
 Belize |
| District | Corozal District |
| Elevation | 2-4 m (−11 ft) |
| Population (2010) | |
| • Total | 4,500 |
| Time zone | Central (UTC-6) |
| Climate | Aw |
Sarteneja is a small fishing town in the Corozal District of Belize. It's approximate population as of 2010 is 4,500, it is the largest village in Belize. Sarteneja village's Mayan name translates to "water between the rocks," referring to a massive piece of stone within the village.It is located on the Sarteneja Peninsula, approximately forty miles by road from Orange Walk Town and is near the privately owned Shipstern Conservation & Management Area. The village's economy is based primarily on fishing for lobster and conch, although tourism is becoming increasingly significant as a source of income.
Sarteneja is also known for its rich culture such as their finados celebrated every November. The majority of the villagers prepare to welcome the "Finados" or "Día de los Muertos" or "All Souls' Day" which begins on November 1. This is dedicated to the dead children that become angels when they die on that day it is believed that they come back to find treats and food left by their relatives. November 2 is dedicated to the adults who have died. They are welcomed by their family members with prayers bread and food, these would be prepared according to their favorite dish they loved when they were alive.Most of Sarteneja's inhabitants are of Yucatec Maya Mestizo ancestry.