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Published: 27-05-2022
It is no wonder that the town of Antigua, in Guatemala’s central highlands, is known as one of the as one of Guatemala´s finest tourist destinations. The town is blessed for its impressive, baroque Spanish architecture, with excellent examples such as the Catedral de Santiago, as well as green areas such as the Parque Central. This town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site is full of interesting and stunning attractions. Here are some of the best attractions to see in Antigua.
Toasting Marshmellows on Palcaya Volcano
Santiago Cathedral
Found on the Parque Central this Roman Catholic church, was constructed way back to 1541. In the late 16th century, an earthquake rocked Antigua causing considerable damage to this baroque construction. After its restoration, only two main towers remain intact from the original building. Spend time wandering through the ancient ruins inside the church with its arches and stucco relief work. Venture deeper into the catacombs for a haunting end to the tour.
Catedral de Santiago, Antigua
Pacaya Volcano
You can’t say you have visited Antigua if you haven’t been to the Pacaya Volcano. This active volcano is dramatic and a must-see on your visit to Antigua. Luckily the most popular hike is accessible without extreme levels of fitness. Found just an hour’s drive from Antigua, you should factor in a couple of hours more to scale its summit. Grab some marshmallows before you leave and toast them on the hot volcanic rocks on the way to the top for a well-earned snack.
Pacaya Volcano, Antigua
Parque Central
Antigua’s Central Park, is found at the heart of Antigua and forms part of the center of the old city. On a hot afternoon it’s the perfect place to sit on a bench and relax in the welcoming shade, with spectacular views of Antigua’s grand architecture surrounding you. With its prime location, it’s the best place to begin your exploration of the town, starting with a look at the elaborate fountain, surrounded by mermaids, in the middle of the park.
Parque Central, Antigua
Cementerio General
The Cementerio General has evolved as a hugely popular attraction among tourists, due to its lush, tree-lined walkways and white mausoleums. As you wind your way through the labyrinth of tombs you will arrive at the mausoleums, decorated with wreaths and exotic flowers. An excellent place to reflect and escape the center for a while.
General Cemetery
Cerro de la Cruz
For the best mirador over Antigua, head north and ascend to the Cerro de la Cruz, or Hill of the Cross. The hike will take about 30 minutes or alternatively you can opt for a short cab ride. Once you get to the summit, make sure you have your camera to capture what is without doubt the most dramatic view of Antigua with a spectacular volcano backdrop.
Cerro De La cruz
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
The Casa Santo Domingo will immediately take you back in time with its captivatingly beautiful five-star hotel, ladened with history and of course luxury amenities, including a sophisticated spa offering massages and facials. Originally a convent, you can learn all about the history of this building at the hotel’s museum. Spend your afternoon sipping icy beers in the garden, with the beautiful pools and fountains, as tropical birds fly overhead.
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
Iglesia de La Merced
Dating back to the 18th century and with fine baroque designs, the Iglesia de La Merced is one of the best-preserved churches in Antigua and why it’s one of the most-visited places of worship in the town. Visitors will be impressed by its impressive architectural details, its vibrant yellow-and-white facade to the intricate stucco designs. The bell towers of the church were constructed specifically to withstand the constant earthquakes that shake Antigua.
La Merced
San Francisco Church
The oldest active and frequented church in the city, is home to the shrine of Saint Joseph de Betancur (also known as Hermano Pedro), a missionary who is known as the first saint of Guatemala. Many flock to pray at his tomb, found in a garden just north of the church. Near his resting place is a museum dedicated to the patron saint, bestowed with his former belongings and offerings of gratitude for his miracles and healing powers.
San Francisco Church
The Central market
If you want to really experience the authenticity of a town, visiting a local market offers excellent insight into local culture and Antigua’s mercado is no exception. Wind your way among the stalls, piled with everything you could ever need, from fresh produce and live chickens to watches and jewellery, cosmetics and ceramics. Be sure to pass through the aisles of fresh fruit to snack on tropical delights, or if you are really hungry, take a table for lunch at one of the markets cafes.
Antigua handicraft market
Convento de las Capuchinas
The convent was constructed in 1725, and was the last to be constructed in Antigua. Because of its amazing architecture, it’s actually considered the first apartment complex in the Americas. Like most buildings in Antigua, the Convent was severely damaged by the 1773 earthquake that rocked Antigua, after which left the convent abandoned for almost two centuries. As a result of more recent renovations, you can step inside for a glimpse of how life was all those years ago.
