The city was founded in 1776 and continues to be the seat of government and commerce. Congress, the Supreme Court and the presidential National Palace, being converted into a museum, are found in Guatemala City. Industrial and commercial sectors cater to a wide variety of businesses such as textile manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Guatemala's agricultural production of sugar cane, coffee, cardamom and other non-traditional products keep the country and its businesses active in the world export market. Many of the guilds and associations have headquarters and home offices in the city and often play host to international business travelers.
Today there are four major convention centers to be found.
Three of the largest are combined with first-class hotels that offer a variety of services that cater to the business traveler. Most offer qualified simultaneous translators for conventions and seminars, Internet access, and temporary office space complete with computers, copiers and scanners. For the traveler looking for an escape from the business world, the city comes to life in a different way. Walking tours through the downtown area of the city give visitors a chance to see the hustle and bustle of one of the country's busiest sectors. While businesses and street vendors begin another working day, the faithful take their daily walk through the Central Plaza to attend mass in the metropolitan cathedral.