Tojolab'al - Settlements

The settlement pattern generally corresponds to what is termed "compact low density" and has a rectangular layout. Each block is occupied by four to six families, almost always linked by family ties. Around the settlement are the cultivated lands; farther out are pastures and communal forests, if these exist.

Houses are built following a rectangular plan, and, although construction materials vary according to the ecological zone, almost without exception they have earthen floors. There is almost no furniture in the houses. Only seldom are there latrines or piped water. Other common constructions in the block compound are chicken coops, pigsties, granaries, sheep corrals and sweat baths ( ik'a ).