National Coordinators

Mario Maldonado

Spain

Mario Roberto Maldonado Samayoa is a cultural heritage specialist with a strong academic background as a PhD in History, a Master’s in Cultural Management, and an Architect, as well as a distinguished international career linked to UNESCO. His work focuses on the management, conservation, and enhancement of heritage, with particular emphasis on religious expressions, which are key to cultural tourism in Guatemala.

He has led significant projects such as the inscription of Holy Week in Guatemala on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. He is also driving initiatives such as the Pilgrimage of the Black Christs of Esquipulas, strengthening its international projection.

He has experience in the restoration of historic monuments and in the preparation of heritage dossiers that integrate culture, spirituality, and sustainable tourism. From positions such as Vice Minister of Cultural Heritage and representative to UNESCO, he has promoted policies that link heritage with tourism development.

Recognized as a Tourism Ambassador and awarded the National Order of Cultural Heritage, he brings a strategic vision focused on sustainable local development.